Voluntary Organizations Assist New York State Storm Survivors
A FEMA New Release
ALBANY, NY- New York State residents who suffered losses as a result of the flooding caused by Hurricane Irene last month and who still have serious unmet needs may find help through the Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters (VOAD) groups now and long after the emergency phase has passed.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the New York State Office of Emergency Management (NYSOEM) are partnered with a variety of non-profit organizations to provide crucial assistance. Through a Voluntary Agency Liaison (VAL), FEMA assists the VOADs with federal assistance programs, deadlines, coordination and donation management. They also identify special needs populations and help applicants avoid duplication of benefits.
“Representatives from voluntary agency groups, local when possible, get together to develop a plan and access the resources needed for their recovery,” said FEMA’s VAL Ken Curtin. “Their mission is to plan for emergencies and disasters such as this. The emphasis is on communication, cooperation, coordination and collaboration.”
Voluntary agencies can provide a wide range of assistance to Hurricane Irene’s survivors. This assistance includes flood debris clean up, shelter, food, clothing, counseling, home repairs and reconstruction, and other unmet needs on a case-by-case basis. New York State storm survivors who want to know more about the work of the national and local organizations should visit www.nvoad.org/ or www.nyvoad.org/. Disaster survivors in most counties can also call 2-1-1 to request help with debris clean up or get information on other available services.
Organizations responding to the Hurricane Irene recovery effort include the American Red Cross, AmeriCorps and The Salvation Army. Clean up help is being provided by local faith-based agencies like Southern Baptist, Lutheran Disaster Services and many others. They have also been crucial to the disaster response. These agencies’ efforts are not financed by the federal government; they are provided by volunteers through charitable donations.
Voluntary agencies will continue to help storm victims and to provide disaster relief services in all affected counties and any other county in need regardless of the federal declaration status.
Posted: September 6th, 2011 under General News.