The Institute for Diversity and Inclusion in Emergency Management deploys Equity Response Teams (ERTs) following major disasters dedicated to ensuring equity in all phases of the disaster cycle for vulnerable, underserved, and marginalized populations. This project will expand the reach and impact of our ERTs which provide communities with improved access to preparedness, recovery and resilience resources in the wake of Hurricane Helene.
There are currently millions of rural, low-income, LGBTQIA+, elderly, and access and functional needs among individuals and families within the state of Florida negatively impacted by recurring major hurricanes due to the current climate crisis. Vulnerability is often exacerbated by major disasters and a direct result of systemic inequity in emergency management policies, programs, and practices. This project will improve access and education for those individuals pre- and post-disaster.
ERTs identify and engage directly with underserved communities, community-based organizations, and faith-based organizations amplifying their voices, experiences, and needs. Individuals and families are provided access to Certified Emergency Managers who connect communities to public, private, and nonprofit resources, provide technical assistance for state and federal recovery resources, and leverage long-term engagement for community training, education, and resilience-building.
The project will support communities disproportionately impacted by disasters in the short- and long-term provide immediate access to response and recovery resources that will decrease recovery times and promote equity. Longitudinally, education, training, awareness, and access to our ERTs will build stronger, resilient, communities better prepared for future disasters improving recovery and resilience outcomes that can also decrease poverty and support improved emergency management access.
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