FARMINGTON — The United Way of the Tri-Valley Area’s 2011 Community Investment Allocation process has begun.

Nonprofit agencies that provide programs and services meeting the health and human service needs of Franklin County and Livermore/Livermore Falls are encouraged to submit application materials, which can be found online at www.uwtva.org/advocate.

Queries can also be made via e-mail at [email protected] or by calling 778-5048.

Applications, which are due by Dec. 16, are reviewed by the United Way Allocation Committee, comprised of staff and volunteers. Applicants are also interviewed in January as part of the volunteer-led process.

“We are pleased to announce this year’s funding availability,” said Executive Director Lisa Laflin. “In 2010, we allocated $137,000 to 17 programs coordinated by 15 agencies in grants ranging from $3,000 to $18,000. An additional $10,000 was also awarded as part of a separate Venture Grant process. This year, we hope to be able to provide even more funding to local programs and initiatives. New applicants are encouraged to apply. Campaign efforts are in high gear as we try to increase what we raised last year due to increasing community need.”

The agency has established the following funding priorities for 2011: Strengthening Children and Families; Increasing Independence and Financial Stability; Improving Health; and Meeting Basic Needs and Responding to Emergencies.