The Danbury City Council has authorized the City Health Director to apply for state funding to benefit the emergency shelter.  Director Lisa Morrissey is applying for $138,000, with no local match required.  The money would be sent to the City over two years.  Morrissey says this helps with operation expenses to staff the shelter during the day and overnight.  She says this will improve safety by keeping the facility in ratio.  Morrissey says they do keep 3 beds empty for an emergency.  With this funding, she says they will be able to explore more options to provide beds to the homeless in winter.  There are additional restrictions with the accompanying funds.  Morrissey notes that the City has been a recipient of this grant in the past, so no change in procedures are needed.