New Report: Ensuring the Delivery of Human Services in Disasters

Posted by on October 28, 2013

UWGPSNJ, Drexel partner on disaster preparedness paper

United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey (UWGPSNJ) recently commissioned the Center for Public Health Readiness and Communication at the Drexel University School of Public Health to investigate existing emergency response capacity and challenges among nonprofit human service agencies (HSAs).

In Southeastern Pennsylvania, a crisis often disproportionately affects our most vulnerable populations, particularly those with chronic medical conditions and limited access to basic human needs such as food and shelter. In crisis situations like these, HSAs help restore stability, but little has been known about their readiness to respond effectively and coordinate efforts with government, public safety partners and Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD) in Southeastern Pennsylvania.

Over the course of one year, the Drexel team surveyed more than 650 agencies in Southeastern Pennsylvania and conducted interviews with dozens of agency, government, and emergency management and response leaders responsible for delivering human services in the wake of a disaster. The result of these efforts – Ensuring the Delivery of Human Services in Disasters: A White Paper for Southeastern Pennsylvania – outlines best practices and recommendations for future planning including capacity, coordination, communication, training and leadership.

UWGPSNJ is committed to working with local government and leaders of disaster and non-disaster-focused agencies to identify solutions and formulate a plan for emergency preparedness and long-term recovery. To learn more about this work, click here.

http://www.unitedforimpact.org/index.php/blog/working-together-in-times-of-crisis

For help during a time of crisis or for basic needs assistance, dial 2-1-1 or visit http://www.211sepa.org.