COVID-19 and Disaster Preparedness
The COVID-19 pandemic adds complications during disasters. Evacuation shelters will have limited capacities and other safety precautions. Gathering supplies may take longer than usual, and you should include items like masks, gloves, and hand sanitizer in your kit.  Folks may be more vulnerable to disasters because of financial hardship or challenges with physical or mental health. Individuals with functional needs may be isolated from their usual support systems.

Consider how you can help your congregation stay safe during the disaster, as well as during clean-up and response.

See recommendations for preparing for disasters and COVID-19 from  The CDC and The Red Cross.

As the old saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
In addition to the practical benefits of preparation, communities of faith have an additional motivation: advance planning and preparation helps us help others. In the critical moments, days, and months following a crisis event, established plans can save precious time and resources and can make responses more efficient.
 
Disciples Resources
Congregational Preparedness Guide: Download as PDF or Fillable Word Document and PDF En Español​

10 Steps to Become a More Prepared Congregation

Not If, But When: Disaster Preparedness for Churches and Leaders, Korean Translation

Help and Hope: Disaster Preparedness and Response Tools for Congregations: A short book with first-hand accounts and practical instructions for disaster preparedness. Published by Chalice press, in collaboration with Week of Compassion and Church World Service.

Additional Resource Recommendations on the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) website

Preparedness Training for Congregations and Regions (in-person or virtual): contact Rev. Caroline Hamilton-Arnold
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