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U.S. House Majority Whip and Sixth District Congressman James Clyburn has announced that South Carolina will receive $3.5 million from the Federal Emergency Management Agency to help the homeless and hungry during the difficult economic times.  The money comes from FEMA's Emergency Food and Shelter Program and the amount is more than double what South Carolina received a year ago, according to Clyburn spokeswoman Hope Derrick.

"I am pleased the federal government is responding to the needs of our most vulnerable citizens," said Clybrun in a release.  "As we rebuild our economy, we must ensure that those in economic crisis don't fall through the cracks, and this federal investment will go a long way."

Local boards in various counties will distribute funds, based on priorities, through non-profit agencies.  Among Midlands counties receiving money according to Rep. Clyburn's office:

• Fairfield County
   $22,727
   
• Kershaw County                                  
   $47,131
   
• Lexington County                                
   $154,863
   
• Newberry County                                 
   $31,346
   
• Orangeburg County                               
   $96,339
   
• Richland County                                 
   $242,315
   
• Sumter County                                   
   $82,987