Under the direction of the Humanitarian Coordinator, the SSHF aims to support the timely allocation and disbursement of donor resources to the most critical humanitarian needs, as defined by the Humanitarian Response Plan (HRP). In order to meet this goal, an allocation process exists that is inclusive, transparent and efficient. The allocation guidelines in the Operational Manual provide instructions and clarifications on all the steps of allocation processes and requirements in order to enhance timely and strategic decisions.

The standard allocation process allocates the majority of the funds to priority projects in line with the HRP. Twice a year standard allocation processes will be facilitated based on allocation strategy papers formulated under the leadership of the HC.

The reserve allocation is primarily intended for the rapid and flexible allocation of funds in the event of unforeseen circumstances, emergencies or strategic needs. Reserve allocations are shorter in nature to allow for a quicker response to emergencies.

Key requirements for funds allocated through the reserve in case of emergencies are:

1. The project constitutes an emergency humanitarian response to an unforeseen disaster.
2. The project will remedy, mitigate or avert direct loss of life, physical and psychological harm or threats to a population or group and/or protect their dignity. This may include common humanitarian services that are necessary to enable life-saving activities and inter-agency assessments in case of sudden onset disasters.

The project cycle management process for the SSHF is done through an online platform allowing for better management and institutional memory: https://cbpf.unocha.org/