Pending budget legislation in Washington, D.C., could drastically reduce funding for Kootenai County nonprofits.

The county Emergency Food and Shelter Program receives thousands of dollars annually from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, according to a press release. The EFSP board reviews grant applications and allocates federal money to local food banks, homeless shelters, soup kitchens and other agencies.

FEMA allocated $91,443 in fiscal year 2010, EFSP Board Secretary Jessica Godderz said. But this year, the bill that regulates the FEMA funding - a Department of Homeland Security appropriations bill - is still moving through the Congressional budgeting process, and has not been enacted.

"It's going to affect what the local EFSP board is going to give out, as far as funds," Godderz said.

The Senate and the House of Representatives have both drafted versions of the appropriations bill, the release said. Depending on what version passes, EFSP might lose up to 50 percent of its FEMA funding - money that would otherwise aid the disadvantaged of Kootenai County.

"It just puts more of a strain on the nonprofits," said Jeff Conroy, executive director of St. Vincent de Paul and EFSP board member. "Our whole purpose is to help the homeless and those in need."

St. Vincent's provides a number of services, including men's and women's shelters, hot meals for the homeless, and rent and utilities assistance. The nonprofit received about $48,000 in grants from EFSP in 2010, the program's largest allotment.

With less money on the way, St. Vincent's will have to shuffle its finances, Conroy said. The shelters won't close, but other programs could suffer.

"The pie is getting smaller," he said. "With government services being cut back, they're putting the burden on the nonprofit. There's only so many fundraising activities people will go to. Nonprofits are going to get more creative. It's the old adage: Doing more with less."

The EFSP board meets at least four times per year. A diverse collection of faith-based and philanthropic organizations, the board includes representatives of the American Red Cross, Coeur d'Alene Tribe Social Services, The Jewish Community and the United Way.

Nonprofits of all stripes apply for EFSP grants every year. A multifaceted board ensures fairness when the federal funds are doled out, Godderz explained.

Despite the all-but-certain cuts, the board is accepting grant applications for 2011, the press release said.

Information: 667-8112