Building Disaster Recovery Education in Puerto Rico
GrantID: 13951
Grant Funding Amount Low: $350,000
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: $350,000
Summary
Grant Overview
Enhancing Disaster Readiness in Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico’s vulnerability to natural disasters is an ongoing concern, especially in light of recent hurricanes that have devastated the territory’s infrastructure. According to FEMA, nearly 70% of the population lives in hurricane-prone areas, making disaster preparedness a critical issue. Communities often lack comprehensive knowledge of recovery resources and effective preparation strategies, which can result in prolonged recovery periods following catastrophic events.
The most affected populations include low-income families and individuals with disabilities, who may struggle to navigate disaster response systems. Historical data reveals that these groups are disproportionately impacted by inadequate emergency responses, highlighting the need for tailored education programs. Many residents are unaware of the resources available to them or how to create effective disaster recovery plans.
The Disaster Recovery Education Resource Hub aims to address these gaps by providing communities with essential education on disaster preparedness. The initiative will develop accessible online and in-person training modules that cover emergency planning, resource navigation, and community engagement strategies. By fostering awareness and education, the program will enable residents to take proactive steps in disaster preparedness and resilience.
The program's efficacy will be measured through increased community engagement levels and improvements in disaster readiness scores. Partnerships with local organizations will ensure that the content is culturally relevant and appropriate for varied audiences, allowing it to resonate within diverse communities across the territory. Ongoing assessment will help refine the program based on direct feedback from participants and community leaders.
Puerto Rico's focus on building disaster readiness through community education uniquely positions it among U.S. territories. By prioritizing localized strategies and resources, the territory can enhance community resilience and improve outcomes in the face of future disasters.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements