In the aftermath of a disaster, people turn to their local communities for support. For our congregations, this means that you can choose how you want to be a resource to your local community. Do you have the ability to provide shelter, food, water, and other amenities? What else might your local community need—and how do you want to be part of the solution.

You may want to establish relationships with other congregations and local organizations to identify how your congregation can fit into the broader response plans of your community. Congregations play a crucial role for the community in times of crisis. People will be turning to your congregation whether you are prepared or not.

Contact your local chapter of the American Red Cross, and also research whether your community has a disaster preparedness plan that you can join.