Disaster Management Resources
The Disaster Management Resource Page has been developed with three primary goals in mind: that all information is current, relevant and easy to navigate. This page will be updated periodically when new research/resources arise. If you have valuable Disaster Management information for the field-at-large that is not currently on TCG's website and/or have suggestions of additional resource categories please contact Ilana B. Rose, associate director of research & collective action, or call (212) 609-5900 x257.
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
FEMA is a division of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security dedicated to supporting citizens and first responders in preparing for, protecting against, responding to, recovering from, and mitigating all hazards.
Before and After Disasters
Federal Funding for Cultural Institutions
FEMA 533/September 2005
This handbook contains summary descriptions and contact information for 15 federal grant and loan programs for both preparedness and mitigation and for response and recovery. It also includes: disaster management definitions, disaster response tips, explains how the federal emergency assistance system works and gives extensive online resources. This is the most recent federal manual. Some of the eligibility requirements, have since changed, for example, two years after this report was published performing arts facilities became eligible for federal relief. Contact the funder directly, if in doubt whether your theatre qualifies for a certain grant or loan program.
FEMA Memo
7/1 8/2007
This Memo reinstates performing arts organizations as eligible to apply for FEMA coverage.
DisasterAssistance.gov
Access to Disaster Help and Resources
DisasterAssistance.gov consolidates information about federally funded government assistance from 17 different government agencies to disaster survivors. For instance, you can apply for FEMA individual assistance and Small Business Administration loans through a single online application. There is a questionnaire on their website which helps determine applicant eligibility. You can browse online by category or federal agency for disaster assistance, and there is an option to bookmark your search results. For the “Disaster Relief” category there are 30 different types of federal assistance available. This website also contains breaking natural disaster news, along with the ability to search for federal disaster recovery centers near a current address, renting options and federal student loan information.
U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)
A government agency, the Small Business Administration, provides loans for not-for-profits in presidentially declared disaster areas. The SBA gives up to $2 million to qualified applicants. The Business Physical Disaster Loan may be used to repair or replace real property, machinery, equipment, fixtures, inventory and leasehold improvements.
Guide to Navigating Federal Emergency Management Agency and Small Business Administration Disaster Aid for Cultural Institutions
This publication is an easy-to-follow guide for arts organizations seeking federal funding in times of disaster. It includes: FEMA and SBA application instructions and forms, a listing of state emergency management agencies and FEMA disaster assistance policies. This manual was originally published in July, 2008 and updated in January, 2009. Please visit American Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works for future updates.
Heritage Emergency National Task Force
The Heritage Emergency National Task Force is a partnership of 41 national service organizations and federal agencies created to protect cultural heritage from the damaging effects of natural disasters and other emergencies. This organization primarily works with libraries, archives and museums; however, their website contains disaster planning and response resources that theatres could utilize.
Emergency Response and Salvage Wheel
Offered through the Heritage Preservation Bookstore, the Emergency Response and Salvage Wheel is a quick reference tool outlining critical disaster action and salvage tips.