It Starts and Ends at Home
Long Term Recovery Key in Return to Normalcy
It is an often used phrase: 'all disasters begin local and end local.' We are in the business of disasters. We see destruction, injury, sometimes even death. We see feats of amazement when neighbors set aside their own needs to help others. We see revitalization, compassion and perseverance. At New Hampshire Homeland Security and Emergency Management, long term recovery groups throughout New England got together to discuss disasters and recovery from those disasters.
The room was filled with a group of dedicated individuals from state, faith-based and voluntary agencies. The experiences of those in the room varied from those that have never experienced a FEMA IA (Individual Assistance) declaration in their state, to those whose states have endured two declarations within two years.
"As communities develop their own strength, they are doing recovery," stated Maine IA Officer Darla Chafin.
This comment was the essence of one of the presentations that identified successful long term recovery efforts as: community based; clear in mission and guidelines; one that creates opportunities for strong, long term partnerships; and that engage the public through information.
The presentations of the day focused on locating funding, coordinating with various agencies, community partnerships (including businesses), best practices and effectively utilizing volunteers. Each state engaged on what their concerns are and where they have seen success.
Mimi Mills of the United Way of York County said "you don't want to be handing out business cards when you are convening (for a disaster)." Mills statement is very telling of the outreach efforts that Maine has been cultivating as well as the whole purpose of getting the New England states together. Each state and person can benefit from the experience of another, but there also is the reality that a disaster in a New England state - such as the April Nor'easter 2007- is probably going to affect another New England state.
From a FEMA perspective, we depend very heavily on the efforts of the local community. When a disaster strikes, it is the local community that responds first. When an applicant has needs that exceed FEMA assistance, we look to the local community. And when 18 months pass and the federal declaration ends; it is the local community that must complete recovery. Collaboration among agencies, and collaboration among states; helps us all to be part of a strong, disaster-resilient community.
Last Modified: Wednesday, 14-Nov-2007 10:59:25 EST