Each year there are thousands of natural disasters that occur around the world, ranging from hurricanes and tornadoes to earthquakes and fires. There are many agencies, both national and international, that respond to the needs of the
disabled and people everywhere. Get information on natural disasters, as well as organizations that provide relief, from the organizations listed below.
Provides information on
disaster relief efforts and advice on how to prepare for natural disasters. The Red Cross "responds to about 70,000 natural and man-made disasters in the U.S., ranging from fires to hurricanes, floods, earthquakes, tornadoes, hazardous materials spills, transportation accidents and explosions" each year.
AmeriCares is a "nonprofit disaster relief and humanitarian aid organization which provides immediate response to emergency medical needs – and supports long-term humanitarian assistance programs – for all people around the world, irrespective of race, creed or political persuasion."
Catholic Charities provides relief and recovery services at the local level by Catholic Charities agencies. These agencies provide "critical services including emergency food, shelter, direct financial assistance, counseling, and support. These services are provided regardless of race, creed, or socio-economic status."
Disaster assistance in the United States - government website. Provides an online application for requesting assistance.
Online search tool to find the nearest Disaster Recovery Center within any distance. Provided by FEMA.
"In order to qualify for this benefit, your
employment or self-employment must have been lost or interrupted as a direct result of a major disaster declared by the President of the United States. You must have been determined not eligible for regular unemployment insurance benefits (under any state or Federal law)."
Learn ways to reduce risks to health and communities. Includes information on droughts, flooding, earthquakes, hurricanes, tsunamis, wildfires, volcanoes, tornadoes, extreme heat and snow.
Advice on how to plan for a tornado by preparing an emergency kit, family communication plan and safety shelter. Includes tips on identifying tornados and advice on how to stay safe.
"The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) provides tax counseling and assistance to taxpayers whose property has been damaged or lost in a Federally declared disaster area." Website provides an online locator to find IRS assistance in your area.
Provides information on cleaning up homes and communities that have been affected by severe weather, floods and other natural disasters. If your questions are not addressed by the fact sheets provided on the website, please call the Missouri Department of Natural Resources at 800-361-4827.
