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Resources if Impacted by a Disaster

When faced with the aftermath of a disaster, first and foremost, make sure you and the people around you are safe.

Here are a few resources to help you take care of immediate needs:

Emergency medical assistance

Call 911 for police, fire, or emergency medical assistance. Be prepared to explain your situation and provide your location.

Emergency shelter

Enter your ZIP code to find your local Red Cross immediate assistance program or Salvation Army support.

Important information

Search your location and this Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Disaster Assistance tool will point you to local emergency management.

Next, if your home or income was impacted by a disaster, consider reaching out to a housing counselor for support:

A housing counselor can help you take advantage of the resources available to you and navigate your most urgent and longer-term housing needs. Remember that counselor services come at no cost to you, and they will never charge you nor accept payment.

Talk to a housing counselor at no cost to you

Call 1-855-HERE2HELP (855-437-3243855-437-3243), or schedule an appointment

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When you talk with your housing counselor, ask them to help you find the right assistance programs and complete the applications.    

  • Shelter — FEMA assistance may include temporary shelter for eligible disaster survivors.
  • Transitional housing — financial assistance from FEMA may be available for those who need temporary emergency housing while their home is being repaired. 
  • Unemployment claims — you may be eligible for assistance when your income has been impacted by a disaster.

Help from your housing counselor doesn’t stop after disaster strikes. You can work with your HUD-approved housing counselor to figure out a plan beyond the immediate situation. In fact, they will be available to help long after the disaster has passed to help you get back to a sense of normal.

For more, check out these 3 steps to take after disaster for homeowners and renters.

Homeowner checklistRenter checklist

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What Should Renters Do After a Disaster?

Keep this checklist handy, so if disaster strikes, you'll know who to call first and how a housing counselor can help you.

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What Should Homeowners Do After a Disaster?

Keep this checklist handy, so if disaster strikes, you'll know who to call first and how a housing counselor could help you.

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How a Housing Counselor Can Help You

If you're experiencing financial hardship or the aftermath of disaster, talk to a housing counselor. They can help you create a plan and learn about your options.

Learn more