Depending upon the extent of damage, relief organizations may or may not arrive at the storm scene. However, even if a representative is not there, the organization may still be able to help you.
9 Resources
You can contact any of these groups for information and possible assistance. When calling, be prepared to
- give your current contact details,
- the type of damage sustained and
- what your immediate needs are (food, clothing, shelter, etc.).
- ask them what they are doing for your area and where you can go for help.
Be patient and remember: They are there to help, but are probably also helping many others.
- Red Cross
- Civic Organizations
- Department of Social Services
- FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency)
- Humane Society (for pet assistance or to report lost pet).
- Your insurance agency
- Nonprofit crisis counseling centers
- Religious organizations
- The Salvation Army
What Else?
Local TV or radio stations will also have information about where to go for assistance.
After a disaster, local and regional authorities — police officers, firefighters, ambulance services and state or municipal service workers — may be dispatched to severely affected areas.
Here’s what you should do ASAP:
- Pay close attention to instructions from emergency management and law enforcement agencies.
- Listen to your radio for updates. The media will be doing its best to keep local, state and federal information coming to you.
WHN Reader TIP – Cell Phone Updates: Can’t get any local stations on your radio? If you can, use your cell phone to call a relative away from the affected area and ask them what the national news cable stations are reporting about your situation. Use this opportunity to also update your family on your condition.
What You Should Ask For/Immediate Needs
Not sure what you need? Here’s a starter list that you can use.
- Clean-up kit
- Clothing
- Counseling
- Eyeglasses
- Food
- Hearing aids or other prosthetic devices
- Medicine
- Other essential items
- Other physical aids
- Pet needs
- Temporary housing