SAMHSA Disaster Resources and Tools
Description:
There are a wide variety of resources, tools, and other materials available to outreach teams, providers, and first responders serving people who are homeless. Following are links to a few of these resources.
Content:
People experiencing homelessness are particularly vulnerable when unexpected disasters or tragedies occur, such as the recent devastation caused by Hurricane Sandy. In addition, individuals and families may become homeless due to unexpected disasters and tragedies. Individuals who are homeless may have a difficult time dealing with a sudden interruption in their lives and are at high risk for harmful physical and psychological reactions after a disaster, including depression and substance abuse. The chaos of disasters and emergency situations can also trigger symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder, a common problem among many people experiencing homelessness. In addition, people who are homeless have little access to media outlets, so they are often the last to know about emergencies. Even if they hear warnings to prepare, individuals who are homeless have limited resources and often are unable to store food or medication, collect supplies, or seek shelter.
Communities must be prepared to address the immediate and unique needs of people experiencing homelessness before disaster strikes and in its wake. In both New York City and New Jersey, hit hard by Hurricane Sandy, tens of thousands of individuals and families are homeless. As the National Health Care for the Homeless Council (NHCHC) notes, serving these individuals who are experiencing homelessness requires culturally competent outreach teams trained in engagement strategies and skilled in trauma-informed communication. They need to be trusted by the people they serve so they are better able to negotiate with individuals who may resist evacuation efforts and who need help coping with the trauma that may result.
There are a wide variety of resources, tools, and other materials available to outreach teams, providers, and first responders serving people who are homeless. Following are links to a few of these resources.
SAMHSA Resources and Tools:
Disaster Distress Helpline 1-800-985-5990 – provides immediate crisis counseling and helps connect callers to trained and compassionate professionals.
Disaster Technical Assistance Center (DTAC) – provides resources to prepare states, territories, and local entities to deliver an effective mental health and substance abuse response during disasters.
Mental Health Awareness in Times of Emotional Distress – offers practical advice and resources on how to deal with the effects disasters can have on physical and mental health.
National Center for Trauma-Informed Care – provides technical assistance to build awareness of trauma-informed care and promotes implementation of trauma-informed practices in programs and services.
Other Resources:
Emergency Preparedness – features resources from the NHCHC, including videos and training materials.
Disaster Planning for People Experiencing Homelessness – offers an overview of important issues to consider when planning for the needs of people who are homeless during disasters.
American Red Cross – responds immediately to natural and manmade disasters in the U.S.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Emergency Preparedness and Response – offers information on specific hazards and preparedness strategies.
DisasterAssistance.gov – houses information on how to get help from the U.S. government before, during, and after a disaster.
Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) – provides information on disaster mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery.
Type of Resource:
HRC Resource
Publication Date:
2012
Location:
Rockville, MD
Phone:
617-467-6014