Disaster Preparedness in Homeless Residential Organizations in Los Angeles County: Identifying Needs, Assessing Gaps

• In Event: 046 - Section on Environment and Technology Roundtable Session (one-hour).
  In Refereed Roundtable: Table 09. Hazards and Disasters

Abstract

Community-based organizations’ (CBOs) are expected to be essential to supporting homeless populations during disasters, yet little is known about their preparedness capabilities and ability to support their vulnerable clients. We report findings from a qualitative study assessing disaster service capabilities, concerns, and needs of non-profit homeless residential service providers in Los Angeles. Twelve semi-structured interviews were conducted with executive staff and emergency planners from six homeless serving organizations. Respondents reported significant barriers to both the delivery of post-disaster services and collaboration with emergency management entities. Organization staff indicated both a need for and interest in technical assistance and training to develop disaster plans for organizations serving these vulnerable populations. These concerns suggest that a multi-sector effort is needed to strengthen the disaster resilience of safety net CBOs serving homeless populations.

Author

• June L Gin, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs