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Disaster Relief and Recovery Resources

In the aftermath of a disaster, your safety comes first.

Immediate safety needs

Emergency medical assistance

Call 911 for police, fire, or emergency medical assistance. Explain what’s happening and provide your location.

Emergency shelter

Find a safe place to stay, based on your ZIP code, from your local Red Cross or Salvation Army.

Local services

For other emergency support near you, use the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Disaster Assistance tool.

Talk to a HUD-approved housing counselor at no cost

A housing counselor can explain what resources are available and guide you through both urgent and long-term housing needs. This help is free — they’ll never ask for or accept payment.

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

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Your counselor can help find the right assistance programs and help you fill out the applications.

  • Shelter. Temporary shelter may be available if you were affected by a disaster.
  • Transitional housing. You may qualify for financial help if you need a place to stay while your home is repaired. 
  • Unemployment. If your job or income was affected, you may be eligible for unemployment assistance.

Your housing counselor can also help beyond the first few days after a disaster. They’ll work with you to create a plan for the weeks and months ahead.

For more details, check out our disaster recovery checklists.

Homeowner checklistRenter checklist

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More to explore

Get to Know Your Renter Rights

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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Get to Know Your Renter Rights

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.

Learn more
person sitting in front of a laptop

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