The American Red Cross has announced a $2.97 million grant to New York Disaster Interfaith Services in support of long-term recovery services for people affected by Superstorm Sandy.

NYDIS will use the grant to administer the New York City Sandy Unmet Needs Roundtable, distribute funds through the New York Unmet Needs Fund, and coordinate housing needs for volunteers who travel to the region to help repair and rebuild homes. Launched in April as a resource of last resort for eligible residents affected by the storm and its aftermath, the Unmet Needs Roundtable will provide customized assistance to New York City residents including emergency cash grants, sustainable recovery grants, loans and, through a partnership with Home Depot, discounted and tax-free appliances, furniture, and building supplies.

In addition, the United Way of New York City has provided a grant through the United Way Hurricane Sandy Recovery Fund to support staff and provide cash assistance through the Unmet Needs Fund. The fund has received additional support from the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship, International Orthodox Christian Charities, Islamic Relief USA, Lutheran Social Services of New York, and Metro Baptist Church, while the Salvation Army is partnering with NYDIS to distribute its own unmet needs funds through the roundtable.

"One size does not fit all; New Yorkers will remain heavily impacted by Superstorm Sandy for years to come, and some of our most vulnerable residents will need customized resources to achieve and sustain long-term recovery," said NYDIS chief response officer Peter Gudaitis. "The funding from the American Red Cross will ensure that NYDIS, along with our partners and other donors, can continue to provide much-needed emergency financial assistance and sustainable recovery resources to all eligible New Yorkers in need through the New York City Sandy Unmet Needs Roundtable."