The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Exchange provides a guide on how to successfully launch a Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) program. This includes a needs assessment kit, operational function summaries, capacity modules, and a staffing analysis worksheet. CDBG-DR Program Life Cycle Quick Guide
This fact sheet provides an introduction to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) program including information on who is eligible to receive this funding, how it can be used, and a basic overview of the process for implementing a CDBG-DR program. CDBG-DR grantees and subrecipients can use this fact sheet as a… Read more
Each CDBG-DR appropriation is authorized through a Public Law (PL) and the associated Federal Register (FR) Notice. Together, these detail the rules and regulations that govern the use of funds as well as any waivers to the CDBG rules. The following tips provide guidance to help grantees ensure they have a thorough understanding of… Read more
As one of the most vulnerable populations in disaster response and recovery, a community’s homeless population cannot be overlooked in disaster planning. June Gin, Veterans Emergency Evaluation Center (VEMEC) Research Health Scientist, recommends that stakeholders involved in the disaster planning process coordinate and collaborate with homeless service organizations during planning. If your community doesn’t have… Read more
Trained staff are essential to making it through the initial 72-hour push after a disaster, when localities often have to go it alone. They also help ensure that the proper resources are attained in the weeks and months after a disaster and that the community is fully reimbursed for disaster recovery expenses. “The best work… Read more
FEMA offers seven online independent study related to public works, transportation, energy and infrastructure restoration. IS-558 — Public Works and Disaster Recovery IS-921.a — Implementing Critical Infrastructure Security and Resilience IS-554 — Emergency Planning for Public Works IS-801 — Emergency Support Functions (ESF) #1 – Transportation IS-812 — Emergency Support Function (ESF) # 12 –… Read more
FEMA’s Community Recovery Management Toolkit offers guidance, case studies, tools and training to help jurisdictions navigate the often overlooked long-term disaster recovery planning process. The guide includes sections focused on organization, recovery planning and managing recovery, and also provides resources to assist core capability functions, such as housing, infrastructure and health and human services. … Read more
Building Codes are sets of regulations governing the design, construction, alteration, and maintenance of structures that specify the minimum requirements to safeguard the health, safety, and welfare of building occupants. According to FEMA, seismic provisions to codes are inconsistent — even in states more susceptible to earthquake activity. “A properly functioning building department will ensure… Read more
State emergency management agencies (EMAs), regional FEMA offices and surrounding jurisdictions can serve as useful resources to supplement your locality’s disaster training needs before a disaster, and immediately after a disaster strikes if need be. These tips provide guidance to ensure localities take full advantage of regional training opportunities. Find out if your state… Read more
A program specifications document is required for communities participating in HUD’s Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) program. The document provides a framework for materials and construction methods that addresses common needs encountered by the program, from inception to closeout. Below, IBTS Build it Back Recovery Team Project Leader Josh Cummings provides tips for… Read more