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Disaster Displacement

In the United States, people most often lose their homes because of storms, flooding, and wildfires.

Families who live in communities affected by a disaster may lose their homes, or their neighborhoods may become unlivable. They may experience short-term or long-term displacement. Staff in your program may also experience displacement and need support after a disaster. Be aware of any losses that families or staff may experience and how you can make referrals for temporary shelter and other resources to meet their basic needs as much as possible. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) may be able to give some help and refer families to more resources.

Families who don’t have a lot of resources before a disaster are most at risk for displacement. People who are displaced often struggle with social isolation, housing, transportation, education, child care, and jobs. Displacement can cause high levels of stress and financial hardship for months or years after a disaster.

Keep Mental Health in Mind

Offer mental health resources to help children, families, and staff resume their lives in a healthy way. See Responding to Disasters with Mental Health in Mind for more about supporting the mental health of children, families, and staff after a disaster.

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,  Safety Practices