The document discusses disaster planning for homeless individuals in Roanoke, Virginia. It acknowledges that homeless populations are often overlooked in emergency plans due to lack of access to resources. The document defines homelessness and outlines specific challenges homeless people face during disasters like lack of communication, transportation, shelter, and basic necessities. It recommends that emergency plans work with local homeless services to ensure notification, evacuation, and access to supplies for homeless individuals. The goal is to improve support and inclusion of homeless communities in Roanoke's emergency management operations.
Thematic Assessment on Physical Assault - YemenMuhammad Idrees
The document summarizes the findings of a GBV assessment conducted in 8 governorates in Yemen in December 2015. It finds that reports of physical assault against women have increased significantly since the start of the conflict in March 2015, with 66% of respondents indicating a rise. Key reported causes for the increase include displacement, lack of economic opportunities, breakdown of rule of law, and psychological impacts of the conflict. The frequency and severity of physical violence was found to vary between governorates. Recommendations are made for improved GBV prevention and response programming combining efforts of communities, humanitarian organizations, and local associations.
1) Federal sequestration cuts will reduce funding for many of San Antonio's federally-funded city grant programs by 5.1-8.2%, potentially impacting $7-11 million of the city's FY2014 budget.
2) Air traffic control towers at San Antonio airports face closures or reduced hours.
3) Build America Bond subsidies will be cut by 8.7%, costing San Antonio $166,000 in FY2013. Changes to municipal bond tax exemption could also increase city borrowing costs.
The Total Health Village program in Tambayacu, Ecuador is a participatory community development strategy that facilitates self-empowerment. Through tools like needs assessments, the community identifies priorities related to livelihood, prevention of diseases, and access to treatment. They then work to solve their own problems in these areas. The 5-year program aims to improve holistic well-being for the 700 person community through initiatives related to agriculture, clean water, education, and more. It is low-cost at $4.16 per person per month and aligns with national and global health goals.
This document summarizes disasters that have impacted Northwestern Pakistan over the last 7 years, including an earthquake in 2005, insurgency from 2007-present, and floods in 2010. It discusses the challenges of responding to these disasters, including a struggling national disaster management system, lack of coordination among assistance providers, and political biases in relief distribution. The document also provides suggestions for improving disaster response, such as assisting people based on vulnerability rather than location and incorporating traditional welfare mechanisms and international donors.
El documento discute la posibilidad de aplicar el trabajo colaborativo en las aulas chilenas. Señala que esto presenta dificultades debido a que los estudiantes a menudo son individualistas y les falta empatía y pensamiento crítico. Sin embargo, el trabajo colaborativo podría ayudar a superar estas deficiencias y traer beneficios como el aprendizaje del trabajo en equipo y la mejora del pensamiento crítico. Aún así, se deben considerar desafíos como diferencias en habilidades y opiniones.
Thematic Assessment on Physical Assault - YemenMuhammad Idrees
The document summarizes the findings of a GBV assessment conducted in 8 governorates in Yemen in December 2015. It finds that reports of physical assault against women have increased significantly since the start of the conflict in March 2015, with 66% of respondents indicating a rise. Key reported causes for the increase include displacement, lack of economic opportunities, breakdown of rule of law, and psychological impacts of the conflict. The frequency and severity of physical violence was found to vary between governorates. Recommendations are made for improved GBV prevention and response programming combining efforts of communities, humanitarian organizations, and local associations.
1) Federal sequestration cuts will reduce funding for many of San Antonio's federally-funded city grant programs by 5.1-8.2%, potentially impacting $7-11 million of the city's FY2014 budget.
2) Air traffic control towers at San Antonio airports face closures or reduced hours.
3) Build America Bond subsidies will be cut by 8.7%, costing San Antonio $166,000 in FY2013. Changes to municipal bond tax exemption could also increase city borrowing costs.
The Total Health Village program in Tambayacu, Ecuador is a participatory community development strategy that facilitates self-empowerment. Through tools like needs assessments, the community identifies priorities related to livelihood, prevention of diseases, and access to treatment. They then work to solve their own problems in these areas. The 5-year program aims to improve holistic well-being for the 700 person community through initiatives related to agriculture, clean water, education, and more. It is low-cost at $4.16 per person per month and aligns with national and global health goals.
This document summarizes disasters that have impacted Northwestern Pakistan over the last 7 years, including an earthquake in 2005, insurgency from 2007-present, and floods in 2010. It discusses the challenges of responding to these disasters, including a struggling national disaster management system, lack of coordination among assistance providers, and political biases in relief distribution. The document also provides suggestions for improving disaster response, such as assisting people based on vulnerability rather than location and incorporating traditional welfare mechanisms and international donors.
El documento discute la posibilidad de aplicar el trabajo colaborativo en las aulas chilenas. Señala que esto presenta dificultades debido a que los estudiantes a menudo son individualistas y les falta empatía y pensamiento crítico. Sin embargo, el trabajo colaborativo podría ayudar a superar estas deficiencias y traer beneficios como el aprendizaje del trabajo en equipo y la mejora del pensamiento crítico. Aún así, se deben considerar desafíos como diferencias en habilidades y opiniones.
The document discusses the benefits of exercise for mental health. Regular physical activity can help reduce anxiety and depression and improve mood and cognitive functioning. Exercise causes chemical changes in the brain that may help protect against mental illness and improve symptoms.
Выступление Евгения Власова (CallTouch) на International Conference on Big Data and its Applications (ICBDA).
ICBDA — конференция для предпринимателей и разработчиков о том, как эффективно решать бизнес-задачи с помощью анализа больших данных.
http://icbda2015.org/
Выступление Романа Постникова («Мегафон») на International Conference on Big Data and its Applications (ICBDA).
ICBDA — конференция для предпринимателей и разработчиков о том, как эффективно решать бизнес-задачи с помощью анализа больших данных.
http://icbda2015.org/
- Supportive housing provides permanent affordable housing combined with flexible voluntary services to help people live stable lives and reduce cycling between homelessness, incarceration, hospitals and shelters.
- Research shows supportive housing reduces recidivism and costs to criminal justice systems while improving health outcomes for tenants. It is an effective approach for people leaving incarceration who often face homelessness and other challenges.
- The document advocates for investing in supportive housing as part of comprehensive reentry efforts to improve lives and more efficiently use public resources.
This document provides information about the Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program. It discusses who is at risk of homelessness among veterans and the challenges of prevention efforts. Key points include that 10% of veterans in poverty become homeless each year, and rates are higher for Hispanic/Latino and African American veterans. Younger veterans aged 18-30 also face higher risks. Nearly half of all homeless veterans are located in just four states. The document outlines eligible services and financial assistance provided through SSVF to help veterans obtain and maintain permanent housing. It distinguishes SSVF from other VA programs by focusing on short-term housing stabilization rather than long-term treatment. The overall goals are to prevent and reduce
The Salvation Army is applying for funding to expand its Homeless Prevention program. The program provides rental assistance for up to 3 months and case
management to extremely low-income families facing eviction. Last year 146 families received 1 month of rental assistance through other funding. The program aims
to serve 50 additional families with 3 months of rental assistance through ESG funds. A dedicated case manager will develop service plans and link families to other
supports to help them overcome their financial crisis and maintain housing. The program meets the CoC's priority of preventing homelessness by helping families
avoid eviction and homelessness.
This document provides guidance for organizations assisting chronically homeless individuals. It defines chronic homelessness according to HUD standards and explains how to verify an individual's status. Key points include: chronic homelessness is defined as continuous homelessness for over a year or at least four episodes of homelessness in three years; documentation from a third party source is required to verify an individual's history; and short-term treatment can be recommended before housing placement to increase housing stability. Templates are provided for documenting an individual's chronic homelessness in a consistent manner.
Disrupting homelessness in our community.pptxZain673453
The document discusses disrupting homelessness in the local community. It begins by defining homelessness and providing statistics for the local area. The main root causes of homelessness are identified as loss of income, lack of affordable housing, domestic violence, and substance abuse or mental illness. It then explains how structural issues like these contribute to perpetuating homelessness. Effective ways to disrupt current structures include providing affordable housing and social services, creating job opportunities, and collaborating across organizations and government agencies. Community-powered solutions like volunteering, advocacy, and partnerships can also help address the root causes of homelessness. The conclusion emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive, collaborative approach to create meaningful change.
DO Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that provides various programs to help people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. The document describes DO Foundation's programs which include prevention services, intake/assessment, referral services, transitional housing, education/awareness programs, and a resource day/night center. The goal of DO Foundation is to forge partnerships to help homeless individuals and families achieve self-sufficiency and end chronic homelessness.
The document discusses the link between HIV/AIDS and homelessness. Key points include:
- Lack of affordable housing and discrimination can cause people with HIV/AIDS to become homeless as they may lose their jobs and ability to afford housing.
- Urban Solutions is a nonprofit that provides various services to over 100 low-income and underinsured individuals with HIV/AIDS each year, including medical care, housing assistance, and youth programs.
- The National Alliance to End Homelessness outlines a 10 step plan communities can take that includes strategies like emergency prevention, rapid re-housing, and ensuring access to permanent supportive housing and income for those in need.
The document discusses homelessness and definitions of homelessness. It defines a homeless person as someone who is sleeping in a non-habitable location, emergency shelter, or losing housing within 14 days without support. It also includes people fleeing domestic violence without another residence. Homeless populations include those who are chronically homeless, defined as having a disabling condition and being continuously homeless for over a year or having at least four episodes of homelessness in the past three years.
This document provides an overview of homelessness in Los Angeles County, with a focus on Service Planning Area 4. It describes the characteristics of the homeless population, including families, children, veterans and different ethnic groups. It examines the multi-dimensional causes of homelessness using a framework that considers individual, environmental, structural and superstructural factors. The document also explores the health issues facing the homeless, such as higher mortality rates and increased risks of mental health, substance abuse and infectious disease problems. It outlines services and programs available at the federal, state and local levels to help the homeless. The conclusion advocates using a multi-dimensional approach to comprehensively address homelessness through coordinated community efforts.
This grant proposal is from A Better You Housing Project, LLC to establish a housing program for homeless individuals in New Orleans. The program will provide 100 units of housing with on-site social services to help tenants maintain stable housing. Services will include case management, health care, job training, and more. Goals are to help tenants maintain housing for at least 90 days and increase income through employment. The budget is $230,000 for the first year, $300,000 for the second, and $450,000 for the third.
The document discusses the benefits of exercise for mental health. Regular physical activity can help reduce anxiety and depression and improve mood and cognitive functioning. Exercise causes chemical changes in the brain that may help protect against mental illness and improve symptoms.
Выступление Евгения Власова (CallTouch) на International Conference on Big Data and its Applications (ICBDA).
ICBDA — конференция для предпринимателей и разработчиков о том, как эффективно решать бизнес-задачи с помощью анализа больших данных.
http://icbda2015.org/
Выступление Романа Постникова («Мегафон») на International Conference on Big Data and its Applications (ICBDA).
ICBDA — конференция для предпринимателей и разработчиков о том, как эффективно решать бизнес-задачи с помощью анализа больших данных.
http://icbda2015.org/
- Supportive housing provides permanent affordable housing combined with flexible voluntary services to help people live stable lives and reduce cycling between homelessness, incarceration, hospitals and shelters.
- Research shows supportive housing reduces recidivism and costs to criminal justice systems while improving health outcomes for tenants. It is an effective approach for people leaving incarceration who often face homelessness and other challenges.
- The document advocates for investing in supportive housing as part of comprehensive reentry efforts to improve lives and more efficiently use public resources.
This document provides information about the Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program. It discusses who is at risk of homelessness among veterans and the challenges of prevention efforts. Key points include that 10% of veterans in poverty become homeless each year, and rates are higher for Hispanic/Latino and African American veterans. Younger veterans aged 18-30 also face higher risks. Nearly half of all homeless veterans are located in just four states. The document outlines eligible services and financial assistance provided through SSVF to help veterans obtain and maintain permanent housing. It distinguishes SSVF from other VA programs by focusing on short-term housing stabilization rather than long-term treatment. The overall goals are to prevent and reduce
The Salvation Army is applying for funding to expand its Homeless Prevention program. The program provides rental assistance for up to 3 months and case
management to extremely low-income families facing eviction. Last year 146 families received 1 month of rental assistance through other funding. The program aims
to serve 50 additional families with 3 months of rental assistance through ESG funds. A dedicated case manager will develop service plans and link families to other
supports to help them overcome their financial crisis and maintain housing. The program meets the CoC's priority of preventing homelessness by helping families
avoid eviction and homelessness.
This document provides guidance for organizations assisting chronically homeless individuals. It defines chronic homelessness according to HUD standards and explains how to verify an individual's status. Key points include: chronic homelessness is defined as continuous homelessness for over a year or at least four episodes of homelessness in three years; documentation from a third party source is required to verify an individual's history; and short-term treatment can be recommended before housing placement to increase housing stability. Templates are provided for documenting an individual's chronic homelessness in a consistent manner.
Disrupting homelessness in our community.pptxZain673453
The document discusses disrupting homelessness in the local community. It begins by defining homelessness and providing statistics for the local area. The main root causes of homelessness are identified as loss of income, lack of affordable housing, domestic violence, and substance abuse or mental illness. It then explains how structural issues like these contribute to perpetuating homelessness. Effective ways to disrupt current structures include providing affordable housing and social services, creating job opportunities, and collaborating across organizations and government agencies. Community-powered solutions like volunteering, advocacy, and partnerships can also help address the root causes of homelessness. The conclusion emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive, collaborative approach to create meaningful change.
DO Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that provides various programs to help people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. The document describes DO Foundation's programs which include prevention services, intake/assessment, referral services, transitional housing, education/awareness programs, and a resource day/night center. The goal of DO Foundation is to forge partnerships to help homeless individuals and families achieve self-sufficiency and end chronic homelessness.
The document discusses the link between HIV/AIDS and homelessness. Key points include:
- Lack of affordable housing and discrimination can cause people with HIV/AIDS to become homeless as they may lose their jobs and ability to afford housing.
- Urban Solutions is a nonprofit that provides various services to over 100 low-income and underinsured individuals with HIV/AIDS each year, including medical care, housing assistance, and youth programs.
- The National Alliance to End Homelessness outlines a 10 step plan communities can take that includes strategies like emergency prevention, rapid re-housing, and ensuring access to permanent supportive housing and income for those in need.
The document discusses homelessness and definitions of homelessness. It defines a homeless person as someone who is sleeping in a non-habitable location, emergency shelter, or losing housing within 14 days without support. It also includes people fleeing domestic violence without another residence. Homeless populations include those who are chronically homeless, defined as having a disabling condition and being continuously homeless for over a year or having at least four episodes of homelessness in the past three years.
This document provides an overview of homelessness in Los Angeles County, with a focus on Service Planning Area 4. It describes the characteristics of the homeless population, including families, children, veterans and different ethnic groups. It examines the multi-dimensional causes of homelessness using a framework that considers individual, environmental, structural and superstructural factors. The document also explores the health issues facing the homeless, such as higher mortality rates and increased risks of mental health, substance abuse and infectious disease problems. It outlines services and programs available at the federal, state and local levels to help the homeless. The conclusion advocates using a multi-dimensional approach to comprehensively address homelessness through coordinated community efforts.
This grant proposal is from A Better You Housing Project, LLC to establish a housing program for homeless individuals in New Orleans. The program will provide 100 units of housing with on-site social services to help tenants maintain stable housing. Services will include case management, health care, job training, and more. Goals are to help tenants maintain housing for at least 90 days and increase income through employment. The budget is $230,000 for the first year, $300,000 for the second, and $450,000 for the third.
COLLAPSEThe Communication LandscapeEffective crisis commun.docxmary772
COLLAPSE
The Communication Landscape
Effective crisis communication planning requires having accurate demographic information. What languages are spoken in a particular area? Where do the more vulnerable populations live? Who is responsible for making decisions?
Effective communication strategies are typically rapid, accurate, and involve input from all those in decision-making positions. Understanding the cultural milieu and support systems may be challenging for responders from the area and even more so for responders from outside of the area. Overlay these obstacles with a technological inability to communicate inside or outside the region, and planning for communication before a crisis then takes on added importance. Additionally, without effective communication plans in place, disaster rumors and inaccurate or outdated information can in turn cause great chaos.
Furthermore, vulnerable populations can prove to be the most challenging people to assist after a disaster. As evidenced in the 2010 Haiti earthquake, relief was not immediate because of the existing impoverished pre-disaster conditions. Facilities such as airstrips and roads were in questionable repair, so aid coming in was not readily accessible. Most Haitians are low-income, existing on two U.S. dollars per day, and only 50% of the population is literate and able to read directions in order to find locations for food and water. Factors such as these contributed to difficulties in assisting this vulnerable population in the aftermath of the disaster.
To prepare for this Discussion:
Review Chapter 2 in your course text,
Crisis Intervention Strategies,
paying particular attention to multicultural perspectives and considerations.
Review the article, “Psychological Assessment of Children in Disasters and Emergencies,” and focus on the special issues related to assessing the needs of children and adolescents after a crisis. Also concentrate on the different psychological assessment tools that are appropriate for use with this population after a crisis.
Review the article, “Natural Disasters that Reveal Cracks in Our Social Foundation.” Think about the ways in which a break down in services and communication can be avoided for the elderly population during crises like the 2003 France heat wave.
Review the article, “The Transformation of Traditional Mental Health Service Delivery in Multicultural Society in California, USA That Can Be Replicated Globally,” paying particular attention to the necessity of mental health services as a top priority during crises.
Review the article, “Vulnerable Populations in an American Red Cross Shelter After Hurricane Katrina,” and think about the ways in which the ‘Model of Vulnerable Populations’ helps address crises wherein people suffer from multiple losses in their communities. Also think about appropriate mental health obligations that should be taken into consideration when working with vulnerable populations during and after a c.
This document discusses homelessness and housing programs. It notes that in 2010 over 400,000 individuals experienced homelessness in the US, with 10% experiencing chronic homelessness. It then describes the Housing First model, which places individuals in permanent housing first before requiring treatment compliance, unlike transitional housing models. The document outlines several housing programs through the VA and HUD. It also reviews research showing the health impacts of homelessness, including increased mortality, hospitalizations, and costs.
This document summarizes efforts to end homelessness in Bristol, Connecticut. It discusses the national Opening Doors plan and its goals of ending different types of homelessness by 2020. Bristol formed an Ending Homelessness Task Group that has helped house chronically homeless individuals, created a day warming center, and raised awareness. However, barriers like lack of affordable housing, landlord discrimination, and public misunderstanding of homelessness remain challenges. Greater community education and policy changes around affordable housing are needed to fully achieve the goal of ending homelessness in Bristol.
The purpose and intent of the Louisiana Unified Shelter Plan (USP) is to identify common terminology and create minimum shelter standards for any location providing sheltering in response to incidents, regardless of the size and scope and to ensure that all citizens of Louisiana seeking shelter have access to shelters that meet safe, secure and sanitary basic requirements.
This paper discusses how helping ministries can effectively relate to psychological principles to better serve those in need. It emphasizes the importance of volunteers exhibiting high self-efficacy when assisting clients, as this allows them to maintain control over difficult interactions and deliver both positive and negative news calmly. The document also provides an example of how Rowan Helping Ministries in North Carolina carefully handles denying assistance to a client in crisis using structured forms and policies designed to support volunteers and respectfully explain decisions to clients.
This document is a submission from Phil Brown, General Manager of Shelter, Support and Housing Administration at the City of Toronto, to the Ontario Government's Select Committee on Mental Health and Addictions. Brown argues that housing is the most important issue and "first medicine" to address for those who are homeless and mentally ill or have addictions. He provides data about long-term shelter residents in Toronto having high rates of mental illness and addictions. Brown advocates for the "housing first" approach and cites evidence that providing housing and supports results in improved health, reduced substance use, and is more cost effective than emergency services. He asks the committee to provide sustainable funding for shelters and support innovative housing programs.
Older Person's (OPs) Needs in Times of EmergenciesMichelle Avelino
ACCESS Health International-Philippines invited Mr. Francis Kupang, Executive Director of the Coalition of Services of the Elderly, to share his presentation on "Older Person's (OPs) Needs in Times of Emergencies."
Mr. Kupang here talks about their experience in caring with and for the elderly during Typhoon Ondoy with the hope of applying the lessons they learned in preparing our communities to care for the elderly in times of disaster.
The document outlines the specifications for a domestic violence accommodation and floating support service in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames. Key details include:
- The service will provide emergency accommodation for up to 6-9 months in two refuge houses totaling 15 units, as well as floating support for up to 3-6 months.
- Referrals can be made via a 24/7 hotline and risk will be assessed using the CAADA DASH tool to determine the support plan.
- In addition to accommodation, support will include counseling, safety planning, help accessing services, and moving women into permanent housing within 6 months.
- The provider will partner with local agencies, attend domestic violence meetings, and provide
Lot 3 Supporting People service Domestic Violence pathway FINAL 4th November
Homeless Population Annex
1. 1
DISASTER PLANNING FOR INDIVIDUALS WITHIN THE HOMELESS POPULATION
By BowenBen
Roanoke EmergencyManagementServices
Cityof Roanoke
2. DISASTER PLANNING FOR INDIVIDUALS WITHIN THEHOMELESS POPULATION
2
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Special thanks to the following individuals for their assistance and guidance:
Kyle Edgell
Artist and Humor Professional
Association for Applied Therapeutic Humor
International Society of Caricature Artists
Marci Stone
Coordinator
City of Roanoke Emergency Management
Services
Anders Sylvester-Johnson
Director of Programs
Rescue Mission
Susan Trout, MSW
Coordinated Entry Supervisor
Central Intake – One Door
Carol Tuning, BSW, MALS
Human Services Administrator
Chair, Blue Ridge Continuum of Care
All material in this document is available to the public and may be used and reprinted without
special permission. However, citation would be appreciated. Suggested citation:
Ben, B. (2016). Disaster Planning for Individuals within the Homeless Population. Roanoke:
Emergency Management Services.
Disclaimer
Any opinions communicated within this document is strictly that of the author’s, not necessarily
the views of any organization acknowledged above. This document will serve an informational
purpose more for the homeless organizations and population to prepare and respond to a crisis or
any influxes.
Emergency Management Services (EMS)
713 3rd Street SW
Roanoke, Virginia 24016
phone: 540-853-2426
Web site: http://www.roanokeva.gov/639/Emergency-Management
3. DISASTER PLANNING FOR INDIVIDUALS WITHIN THEHOMELESS POPULATION
3
Table of Contents
Executive Summary……………………………………………………………………………….4
Defining Homeless Population……………………………………………………………………5
Pre- and Post-Disaster Planning…………………………………………………………………..6
Shelters & Programs………………………………………………………………………………8
Notes………………..……………………………………………………………………………11
References & Sources……………………………………………………………………………12
4. DISASTER PLANNING FOR INDIVIDUALS WITHIN THEHOMELESS POPULATION
4
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
______________________________________________________________________________
The homeless population is often disregarded in local and state emergency management plans
because of their inaccessibility to residency and specific resources that can inform them of a
disaster occurrence and what to do in a crisis. When faced with troubled times, their specific
needs are usually ignored or paired up with the general population’s and requires prior
knowledge of where to go for health, food, water, and shelter needs. However, there are specific
concerns that are only applicable to the homeless population which are not addressed in most
contingency plans. The City of Roanoke Emergency Management’s main goal is “to aid the
community in mitigating, preparing for, responding to, recovering from natural and man-made
emergencies and disasters that could affect the citizens, businesses and visitors of the City of
Roanoke”.1 Each category of citizens has its own response to a disaster and grouping up the
homeless needs with other individuals draws away valuable assistance from their respective
groups.
The circumstances in which people become homeless can vary anywhere from domestic to
community violence. However, the main reason people experience homelessness is because they
cannot find housing they can afford. It’s because of this situation that homeless people are more
vulnerable and require aid with even the simplest of needs after a disaster. Issues this population
can face include:
Personal preparation
Communication
Transportation and evacuation
Basic necessities (health, food, shelter)
Failing to explicitly include homelessness in specifications has resulted in unintended
consequences where they are denied services. The City of Roanoke contains many local shelters
and a Homeless Assistance Team (HAT) to address the issues above and continually improve
upon them. The importance of having preparation, evacuation and operation plans are a
necessity. Assistance shelters should also consider obtaining backup generators and a supply of
basic needs items to utilize during disasters.
Emergency Management Services is a public, government entity for the City of Roanoke that
“maintains the city’s Emergency Operations Center, is an active partner with the Roanoke Valley
Local Emergency Planning Committee and participates in regular exercises to test and
continuously revise the city’s Emergency Operations Plan to insure a state of constant
readiness”.2 In order to meet the objectives and goals set by the organization, it posts news and
communicates through the city’s website or through social media platforms such as Facebook
and Twitter. In addition, there are many quick links accessible on the web page in regards to
other organizations and response, but none regarding specific homelessness assistance. Moving
forward, the aim of this document serves to open a forum between Emergency Management and
local shelters and homeless human service agencies with the preparation of disaster preparedness
plans. The situations that can affect not just the homeless population, but the general population
includes:
Power outages greater than 12 hours
5. DISASTER PLANNING FOR INDIVIDUALS WITHIN THEHOMELESS POPULATION
5
Ice Storms
Mass Acts of Violence
Flooding
Hazardous Materials with more than 5 patients
Bomb Threats
Severe Thunderstorm
Snowfall greater than 2 inches
Mass casualty trauma
Wind Events
Temperature extremes
The events that are most prone to effect the homeless population to are the ones that involve
weather. People who are homeless have limited access to Internet and television. To
communicate emergency information to these people, homeless service providers should be
included in emergency notification systems. Service providers can quickly communicate the
emergency situation to those near their facilities and deploy outreach teams to notify the
homeless population that are dispersed throughout the community.
The community is also encouraged to consider the living needs of homeless population after a
disaster. Many areas inhabited by people without homes may not be suitable for living after a
disaster. Disasters pose opportunities for communities to acquire federal funding for
improvements or more service providers.
This plan can also support the county and can be an annex.
The City of Roanoke Emergency Operations Plan (COREOP) maintained by Emergency
Systems including the Comprehensive Plan and Chapters 1 through 8. Please see
http://www.roanokecountyva.gov/index.aspx?NID=743. The plan is in support of
Roanoke County Comprehensive Plan “Chapter 4 – Community Facilities” and all other
parts of the plan.
DEFINING HOMELESS POPULATIONS
______________________________________________________________________________
Before assisting those that fall under the homeless bubble, it must be identified and described to
what dictates the status. Under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services:
A homeless individual is defined in section 330(h)(5)(A) as “an individual who lacks housing
(without regard to whether the individual is a member of a family), including an individual
whose primary residence during the night is a supervised public or private facility (e.g., shelters)
that provides temporary living accommodations, and an individual who is a resident in
transitional housing.” A homeless person is an individual without permanent housing who may
live on the streets; stay in a shelter, mission, single room occupancy facilities, abandoned
building or vehicle; or in any other unstable or non-permanent situation. [Section 330 of the
Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C., 254b)]3
6. DISASTER PLANNING FOR INDIVIDUALS WITHIN THEHOMELESS POPULATION
6
The homeless population is sometimes integrated within the general population or special needs
individuals such as those with functional, learning, or accessibility disabilities. Because of the
stereotyping, the issues they face is undermined. The Federal Emergency Management Agency
(FEMA) does not use the term ‘homeless’ and provides instruction under the ‘special needs’
umbrella. Ultimately, it comes down to what the state and local government determines to be
homeless. Some elements to consider include:
Persons who are living in areas not meant for human habitation, the streets, in shelters,
transitional housing, or are exiting an institution where they temporarily resided.
Persons who are losing primary nighttime residence, which may include a motel or hotel
or a doubled up situation, within 14 days and lack resources or support networks to
remain in housing.
Families with children or unaccompanied youth who are unstably housed and likely to
continue in that state. Applies to families with children or unaccompanied youth who
have not had a lease or ownership interest in a housing unit in the last 91 or more days,
have had three or more moves in the last 90 days, and who are likely to continue to be
unstably housed because of disability or multiple barriers to employment.
Persons who are fleeing or attempting to flee domestic violence, have no other residence,
and lack the resources or support networks to obtain other permanent housing. This
category is similar to the current practice regarding people who are fleeing domestic
violence.
Persons without a regular house or dwelling because they cannot afford, or are otherwise
unable to maintain regular, safe, and adequate housing, or lack "fixed, regular, and
adequate nighttime residence."
Persons who literally spend substantial periods of time on or reside on the streets.4
PRE- AND POST-DISASTER PLANNING
______________________________________________________________________________
Emergency Management will work coordinate with the City of Roanoke, local homeless shelters
and services providers, and volunteer disaster assistance programs to ensure the survival and
basic needs of the homeless population are met during a disaster. In addition, communication
methods and resource accessibility will be provided to these organizations.
Communication
Pamphlets- One way to raise awareness to the homeless population is to do so before a disaster
strikes. Pamphlets or flyers generally contain information about processes or organizations that
assist in emergencies and within customized ones, there could be a variety of shelters that
individuals could utilize in emergencies depending on what part of Roanoke the emergency is
effecting. Information will also be included on how to access information in emergencies
including what radio stations will emit emergency broadcasts, how to register cell phones for
7. DISASTER PLANNING FOR INDIVIDUALS WITHIN THEHOMELESS POPULATION
7
reverse 911, and additional information on outreach team pickups as well as transportation. The
information should be displayed in large fonts with non-complex language. Diagrams or
graphics of the city could even list out where the shelters are relative to the map of the city. The
pamphlets should highlight actions that can be taken as well as actions to avoid to ensure
survivability.
Cell Phones- Some homeless individuals have mobile devices that can get them in contact with
alerts from the city. This is a useful tool that can inform these demographics. This can even lead
to flexible communication between those with phones to those without them, should they be in
the same vicinity.
Information Seminars- Some shelters within the City of Roanoke have programs where
homeless individuals can participate in activities that provide back to the community. The
principle of self-worth is taught and this appeals to those who have lost almost everything and
need a simple step in the right direction. Training programs can teach members of the homeless
population about the potential for upcoming crisis. Educational seminars can communicate
awareness of the COREOP and bi-weekly curriculums can be implemented to educate both
service providers and consumers to foster a sense of mutuality that can facilitate the emergency
response process. The curriculum can include points of:
Pick-up points for evacuations
How to access up-to-date information about the emergency situation
Dangers of seeking inappropriate shelter such as under bridges and overpasses and in cars
What to do if stranded
What to expect physically, mentally, and emotionally during and after different types of
disaster
Guidance on dealing with first responders
Outreach Teams- Workers from the local shelters must work together to locate and transport
homeless individuals who are spread among a wide area, to safety. Outreach workers, such as
those from the HAT, must establish trust and credibility within the homeless community.
Building trust is important when reaching out to people experiencing homelessness. The
discrimination and exclusion that homeless people frequently experience, together with mental or
physical illness, contribute to social isolation, distrust, and unwillingness to act even in an
emergency. The City of Roanoke’s homeless population is dispersed among many areas,
therefore outreach teams must have capabilities to announce emergencies, impending or
aftermath, over a loudspeaker or megaphone from their vehicles.5 These teams can even send
personal notification.
Health
Emergency Kits & Health Information Cards (HIC) - If the city has enough funding, kits
containing water, first aid supplies, and a flashlight may be distributed to the homeless
population during disasters. Kits can provide short term relief until the individual is able to
8. DISASTER PLANNING FOR INDIVIDUALS WITHIN THEHOMELESS POPULATION
8
make it to a more resourceful area or shelter. HICs can provide first responders with personal
and medical information. They are useful if the individual is unconscious or otherwise unable to
communicate his or her needs in an emergency. These cards can be distributed at homeless
shelters or at human services agencies. Announcements sent to hospitals will increase awareness
and utility of the cards.
Transportation and Evacuation
Identifying Homeless Populated Areas- There is not sufficient data to locate all homeless
people that reside inside the city. However, the human interaction with these individuals can
provide ‘street’ knowledge of where groups or camps may be located. General areas where they
may reside include parks, alleys, bridges and overpasses, abandoned infrastructure, fields, and
encampments. The HAT team works regularly to mark numbers and locations of homeless
populations. Once locations have been identified, the pinpointed areas can be relayed to first
responders and outreach teams to notify and transport those willing to safety in a disaster.
Determining and Identifying Transportation Needs and Resources
It is important for emergency planners to collaborate with transportation providers to identify
individuals who might require transportation assistance during an evacuation. This will help
determine appropriate forms of transportation and enhance coordination among multiple service
providers.6 Providers should send representatives to attend emergency preparedness training in
order to relay quality information and be familiar with homeless populations.
SHELTERS & PROGRAMS
__________________________________________________________________
Once the homeless have been transported to a shelter, the shelter should be able to meet their
goal of ensuring the health and safety of those who enter their doors. The City of Roanoke must
work in conjunction with shelters to ensure basic resources such as food, water, and clothing are
available. In addition, there will be those who have more advanced medical and behavioral
needs that must be accounted for.
As of 2016, there are 66 local services and resources accessible in the city of Roanoke or in the
surrounding areas. They include:
9. DISASTER PLANNING FOR INDIVIDUALS WITHIN THEHOMELESS POPULATION
9
Information and Referrals
2-1-1 Virginia Dial 211
www.211virginia.org
Central Intake One Door (540) 853-1163,
339 Salem Avenue SW, Roanoke VA 24016
Community Housing Resource Center
(540) 266-7551, 339 Salem Avenue SW,
Roanoke VA 24016
Overnight Shelters
Family Promise of Roanoke Valley (540)
444-7374, 37 East Clay Street, Salem VA
24153
Rescue Mission (540) 343-7227, 402 Street
SE, Roanoke VA 24013
Salvation Army Red Shield Lodge (540)
342-7398, 821 Salem Ave SW, Roanoke VA
24016
Salvation Army Turning Point (540) 345-
0400
TRUST House (540) 344-8060, 404 Elm
Avenue SW, Roanoke VA 24016
Day Shelters
Roanoke Area Ministries (RAM) (540)
343-3753, 824 Campbell Avenue SW,
Roanoke VA 24016
Samaritan Inn (540) 343-1447, 543 Salem
Avenue SW, Roanoke VA 24016
Direct Service Providers
Alleghany Highlands Rural Shelter Plus
Care (540) 965-2100 Ext. 134
Roanoke City Schools-Homeless Student
Liaison (540) 400-9787
Blue Ridge Behavioral Healthcare/PATH
(540) 853-1716
City of Roanoke Homelessness Assistance
Team (HAT) (540) 853-1715, 339 Salem
Avenue SW, Roanoke VA 24016
City of Roanoke Shelter Plus Care (540)
853-1716
Commonwealth Catholic Charities (540)
342-7561 Ext. 304, 820 Campbell Avenue
SW, Roanoke VA 24016
Community Housing Resource Center
(540) 266-7551, 339 Salem Avenue SW,
Roanoke VA 24016
Family Services of Roanoke Valley (540)
563-5316, 360 Campbell Avenue SW,
Roanoke VA 24016
Outreach at St. John’s Episcopal Church
(540) 343-9341, 1 Mountain Avenue SW,
Roanoke VA 24016
Roanoke Redevelopment and Housing
Authority (540) 983-9281, 2624 Salem
Turnpike NW, Roanoke VA 24017
Safehome Systems (540) 965-3237, 102 E.
Main Street, Covington VA 24426
Total Action for Progress (TAP) (540)
283-4800, 302 Second Street SW, Roanoke
VA 24011
Social Services Department
Alleghany County/Covington Department
of Social Services (540) 965-1780, 110
Rosedale Avenue Suite B, Covington VA
24426
Bath County Department of Social
Services (540) 839-7271, 65 Courthouse
Hill Road, Warm Springs VA 24484
Botetourt County Department of Social
Services (540) 591-5960, 220 Commons
Parkway, Daleville VA 24083
Craig County Department of Social
Services (540) 864-5117, 177 Court Street
#1, New Castle VA 24127
Roanoke City Department of Social
Services (540) 853-2591, 1510 Williamson
Road, 3rd Floor, Roanoke VA 24012
Roanoke County Department of Social
Services (540) 387-6087 (Roanoke County,
Salem, and Vinton), 220 East Main Street,
Salem VA 24153
Veterans
TAP Homeless Veterans Reintegration
Program (540) 283-4908, 302 Second
Street SW, Roanoke VA 24011
Veterans Affairs Medical Center (540)
982-2463 Ext. 1517 or 2520, 1970 Roanoke
Blvd., Salem VA 24153
Virginia Department of Veterans Affairs
(540) 342-9726
Disability
10. 10
Blue Ridge Independent Living Center
(540) 342-1231 (V/TTY), 1502 B
Williamson Road NE, Roanoke VA 24012
Brain Injury Services of SW VA (540)
344-1200, 3904 Franklin Road SW,
Roanoke, VA 24014
Legal Assistance
Blue Ridge Legal Services (540) 344-2080,
132 Campbell Avenue,Suite 300, Roanoke
VA 24011
Legal Aid Society of Roanoke Valley (540)
344-2080, 132 Campbell Avenue, Suite 200,
Roanoke VA 24011
Health/Mental Health
Blue Ridge Behavioral Healthcare (540)
981-9351
Alleghany Highlands Community
Services Board (540) 965-2100, 311 S
Monroe Avenue,Covington, VA 24426
Bradley Free Clinic of the Roanoke
Valley (540) 344-5156, 1240 3rd Street,
Roanoke VA
City of Roanoke Health Department (540)
283-5050, 1502 Williamson Road NE, 2nd
Floor, Roanoke VA 24012
New Horizons (formerly Kuumba) (540)
362-0360, 4910 Valley View Blvd Suite
310, Roanoke VA 24012
Roanoke County/Salem Health
Department (540) 387-5530, 105 E.
Calhoun Street, Salem VA 24153
Roanoke County/Vinton Health
Department (540)857-7800, 224 S. Pollard
Street, Vinton VA 24179
Thrift Stores
Goodwill (540) 581-0620, Locations
throughout the area
Habitat for Humanity ReStore (540) 767-
2267, 403 Salem Avenue, Roanoke VA
24016
Rescue Mission Thrift Store (540) 777-
0145, 421 4th Street SE, Roanoke VA 24013
Salvation Army Thrift Store (540) 563-
5585, 5511 Williamson Road, Roanoke VA
24012
St. Mark’s Lutheran Church (540) 344-
9051, 1008 Franklin Road SW, Roanoke VA
24016, NO CHARGE/1st & 3rd Thursdays,
9:30am-10:30am
Transportation
Valley Metro (540) 982-2222,
wwwvalleymetro.com, 1109 Campbell
Avenue SE, Roanoke VA 24013
Smartway Bus (540) 982-6622
RADAR (540) 343-1721, 1-800-964-5707,
www.radartransit.org
Greyhound Bus (540) 343-5436, 26 Salem
Avenue SW, Roanoke VA, 24011
Megabus www.megabus,com
Smart Way Connector (Amtrack) (540)
982-2222, www.smartwaybus.com
Star Line Trolley (540) 982-2222
City Cab (540) 815-5050
Dependable Cab (540) 524-0948
Go Green Taxi (540) 397-5555
Northwest Cab (540) 339-5594
Salem Taxi (540) 389-5555
Yellow Cab (540) 345-7711
Food Pantries/Food Resources
Feeding America Southwest Virginia
(540) 342-3011, 1025 Electric Road, Salem
VA 24153
Mission Manna Ministries (540) 343-7227,
402 4th Street SE, Roanoke, VA 24013
Presbyterian Community Center (540)
982-2911, 1228 Jamison Avenue SE,
Roanoke, VA 24013
Salem Food Pantry (540) 389-6938, 620
Chapman Avenue, Salem VA 24153
St. Francis House (540) 342-7561 Ext. 319,
820 Campbell Avenue SW, Roanoke VA
24016
St. Mark’s Lutheran Church (540) 344-
9051, 1008 Franklin Road SW, Roanoke VA
24016, NO CHARGE/2nd &4th Mondays,
6:00pm-7:00pm
11. 11
Notes
1 & 2 Emergency Management
3
What Is the Official Definition of Homelessness?
4 DISASTER/EMERGENCY PLAN DESIGN FOR THOSE WITH FUNCTIONAL AND ACCESS
NEEDS | HOMELESS POPULATIONS
5 Edgington, Disaster Planning for People Experiencing Homelessness
6 Interim Emergency Management Planning Guide for Special Needs Populations
12. DISASTER PLANNING FOR INDIVIDUALS WITHIN THEHOMELESS POPULATION
12
References and Sources:
"DISASTER/EMERGENCY PLAN DESIGN FOR THOSE WITH FUNCTIONAL AND
ACCESS NEEDS | HOMELESS POPULATIONS." Houston Downtown Management
District | Emergency Management Website. 2011. Accessed December 1, 2016.
http://emergency.downtowndistrict.org/external/content/document/5487/1773883/1/CFTH
Disaster Emergency Plan Final _2_.pdf.
Edgington, Sabrina. "Disaster Planning for People Experiencing Homelessness." National Health
Care for the Homeless Council. March 2009. Accessed December 1, 2016.
http://www.nhchc.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Disaster-Planning-for-People-
Experiencing-Homelessness.pdf.
"Emergency Management." Roanoke, VA. Accessed December 01, 2016.
http://www.roanokeva.gov/639/Emergency-Management.
"Interim Emergency Management Planning Guide for Special Needs Populations." The
University of Kansas. August 15, 2008. Accessed December 1, 2016.
http://www2.ku.edu/~rrtcpbs/resources/pdf/FEMA_CPG301.pdf.
"What Is the Official Definition of Homelessness?" National Health Care for the Homeless
Council. Accessed December 01, 2016. https://www.nhchc.org/faq/official-definition-
homelessness/.