ELCA Action Alert: Improve Disaster Recovery Policies
As we begin the Atlantic hurricane season, which spans from Jun. 1 to Nov. 30, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is forecasting above-normal hurricane activity: 25 total named storms with dangerous winds of over 39 mph. This is the reality of the increased incidence of disasters around the world which is compounded by the rising influences of slow-onset climate change.
The bipartisan Reforming Disaster Recovery Act would formally authorize the “Community Development Block Grant – Disaster Recovery” (CDBG-DR) program, one of the few long-term disaster recovery tools used by the federal government to rebuild affordable housing, promoting social and fiscal resilience. The bill would provide important safeguards to ensure disaster relief funds are quickly made available after disasters, codify existing low-income protections for displaced survivors, and improve disaster agency coordination, among other improvements. Learn more about Community Development Block Grant programs from our ELCA “Housing and Disaster Response” resource.
As Lutherans, we hold profound concern for survivors of major disasters – both in the short- and long-term - as we see dignity in each person as children of God. Our churches, Lutheran Disaster Response, and many of our partners arrive in the immediate aftermath of a disaster and remain working to rebuild years after the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) leaves. Through recovery coordination, volunteer recruitment, reconstruction, granting, counseling and other services, Lutherans are committed to continued investment in disaster aid for our communities.
Yet, in the wake of increased disasters with each passing year, our ministries and partners widely indicate the need for better public policies to meet current needs and prepare for future disasters. Legislation such as the Reforming Disaster Recovery Act will generate more equitable access to recovery funds and programs, ensure greater long-term security and resilience, and establish stronger partnerships with our ministries who are committed to recovery assistance.
Share a personalized message about the importance of disaster response using the ELCA Action Center today! And visit ELCA Lutheran Disaster Response to learn more about how you can support survivors of recent disasters.
Use ELCA Advocacy’s letter as a template for your own. Neither Senator Kelly nor Senator Sinema have co-sponsored this bill yet. Let them hear from you!