The Commissioner, in his discretion, may provide emergency welfare assistance and services, on an immediate basis, to any individual or family in need as a result of a natural disaster or other emergency situation. Emergency welfare services may be provided in cash or in kind, to any individual or family in immediate need of food and fuel, shelter, essential articles of clothing (including school clothing), essential articles of household furnishings, or medicines. Funds to provide assistance under the provisions of this subscription shall be appropriated by the Legislature. Purchases made to provide assistance under the provisions of this section may be made in the open market and are exempted from the requirements of sections 235 and 236 of Title 31 of this Code and any other provision of law requiring competitive bidding.