For Release: Monday, December 16, 2002
Contact: David Gillies: 202-225-5661

ILLINOIS COUNTIES RECEIVE FEMA EMERGENCY FOOD AND SHELTER GRANTS

Washington -- U.S. Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL) announced today that several counties in the 12th Congressional District have received funds through the Emergency Food and Shelter National Board program of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The funds are used to help meet the needs of homeless and hungry people across the nation. The Emergency Food and National Shelter Board is comprised of representatives of major national charities and FEMA. Local funds are allocated based on decisions made by a local board.

"This is an especially appropriate time of year to focus efforts on the less fortunate," said Costello. "These funds help people with the basic needs of living, which is the first step to self-sufficiency."

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