FEMA
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), founded in 1979 and headquartered in Washington, D.C., employs over 20,000 people nationwide and specializes in disaster mitigation, management, and recovery.
History of FEMA
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) was established in 1979 through an executive order by President Jimmy Carter. In 2003, FEMA became part of the Department of Homeland Security as a result of organizational restructuring. The agency plays a crucial role in coordinating federal government efforts to prepare for and respond to disasters, fulfilling its mission to help people before, during, and after these events.
Services Offered by FEMA
FEMA provides a range of services aimed at dealing with various aspects of emergencies and disasters. These include mitigation, disaster management, recovery, risk management, preparedness, and protection. FEMA also offers support through disaster assistance programs, Preparedness Grants, Hazard Mitigation Assistance Grants, the Shelter and Services Program, and the Emergency Food and Shelter Program. Furthermore, FEMA operates Disaster Recovery Centers to assist disaster survivors and provides resources for environmental planning and historic preservation through its National Preparedness program.
FEMA Grants and Programs
FEMA administers multiple grant programs to support disaster preparedness and recovery. These include Preparedness Grants for citizens and first responders, Hazard Mitigation Assistance Grants to reduce disaster losses, and the Shelter and Services Program for noncitizen migrants. Other notable programs include the National Dam Safety Program State Assistance Grant, the National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program Earthquake State Assistance Grant Program, the Next Generation Warning System Grant Program, and the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program. FEMA also offers technical assistance for grants management and tools like the Authorized Equipment List and Benefit-Cost Analysis for effective grant allocation.
FEMA's Strategic Mission and Plan
FEMA’s mission is to help people before, during, and after disasters. The agency’s 2022-2026 Strategic Plan outlines three main goals: instill equity as a foundation of emergency management, lead the whole community in climate resilience, and promote and sustain a ready FEMA and a prepared nation. The Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018 further highlights FEMA's commitment to increase investments in mitigation and to build capabilities for state, local, tribal, and territorial partners. FEMA also provides disaster assistance through platforms like DisasterAssistance.gov, nurturing a resilient and responsive community.
FEMA's Workforce and Regional Presence
FEMA employs more than 20,000 people across the nation and can expand its workforce to over 50,000 members during major disasters. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., FEMA also has 10 regional offices located throughout the United States to ensure a decentralized and efficient response to emergencies. The agency is committed to working with a variety of partners to foster a comprehensive National Preparedness Goal and operates the Emergency Manager Exchange Program to facilitate collaboration among local, state, tribal, and territorial emergency managers and government officials.