Newton County will sign a contract today with the Missouri Department of Social Services-Family Support Division for funds through the Emergency Shelter Grant Program.

The contract is valid through March 31, 2009.

Newton County will receive $14,881.

Economic Security Corp. will be allocated $4,074 for operations, $150 for essential services, and $1,000 for prevention education for a total of $5,224.

Neosho Crosslines Ministries will receive $9,359 for operations.

According to the contract, Economic Security Corp. agrees to provide services which include, but are not limited to, the provision of emergency shelter, employment, education and parenting service for homeless individuals.

In the contract agreement, Neosho Crosslines Ministries agrees to use the funds to render services to individuals and families who are homeless. Neosho Crosslines Ministries, according to the contract, agrees to provide services which include, but are not limited to, the provision of emergency shelter, employment, education and parenting service for homeless individuals.

Newton County Administration will be allocated $298 for administration costs.

Both the state and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development have placed significant emphasis on the timely obligation and expenditure of Emergency Shelter Grant funds.

Newton County is required to obligate funds no later than 180 days after the state makes the grant available. In addition, the state expects Newton County to expend Emergency Shelter Grant Program funds during the 12-month contract period.