Seeking Disaster Assistance
Throughout the recovery period, it is important to monitor radio, television reports and other media for information about where to get emergency housing, food, first aid, clothing, and financial assistance. The following section provides general information about the kinds of assistance that may be available. 1) Direct Assistance- Direct assistance to individuals and families may come from any number of organizations, including: The American Red Cross, The Salvation Army, Volunteer organizations. These organizations provide food, shelter, supplies and assist in clean-up efforts. 2) The Federal Role- In most severe disasters, the federal government is called in to help with temporary housing, counseling (for post-disaster trauma), low-interest loans and grants, and other assistance. The federal government also has programs that help small businesses and farmers. Most Federal assistance becomes available when the President declares a “Major Disaster” for the affected area at the request of the governor. FEMA will provide information through the media and community outreach about federal assistance and how to apply.
Additional Information About Natural Disasters
Information on other types of Natural Disasters and more on those listed above can be found at:
http://www.ready.gov
Other Websites That Provide Valuable Information
1) READY America
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security official website
www.ready.gov
2) The American Red Cross
Red Cross Disaster Services
www.redcross.org/services/disaster
3) NOAA: National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration
Federal Government source doe all things weather related
www.NOAA.gov
4) First Gov
The Official Web Portal of the US Federal Government
www.firstgov.gov
5) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Public Health Emergency Preparedness and Response
www.cdc.gov
6) Department of Education
Emergency Preparedness & Safety Plans for Schools
www.ed.gov/school-safety
7) Department of Health and Human Services
Disasters and Emergency Preparedness
www.hhs.gov/civil-rights/for-individuals/special-topics/emergency-preparedness
8) Environmental Protection Agency
Health & Environmental Hazards
https://www.epa.gov/environmental-topics
9) Federal Citizen Information Center
One-stop source for answers to questions about consumer problems and government services
https://pueblo.gpo.gov
10) Federal Emergency Management Agency
Lead federal agency to prepare for, prevent, respond to and recover from disasters
www.fema.gov/
11) First Gov for Consumers
Government website to help consumers manage money, protect their identity and credit
www.consumer.gov