Programs News

Washington- The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) came in support of the communities experiencing the direct impact of weather-related disasters by announcing its disaster recovery efforts. The Department is establishing its Office of Disaster Management (ODM) in the Office of the Deputy Secretary and Office of Disaster Recovery keeping in mind the increasing number of disasters. More than $3.3 Billion in funds were allocated to the Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery program along with the addition of new staff members.

By enhancing coordination, reducing bureaucracy, and bolstering capacity, these measures aim to expedite the disbursement of recovery funding to communities, ensuring a streamlined and transparent disaster recovery planning process that encourages collaboration with communities from the outset.

After Marcia L. Fudge made an announcement, Kentucky received $300 Million whereas Florida received around $2.7 Billion following the announcement made by the Deputy Secretary.

Marcia L. Fudge said, “HUD is committed to helping underserved communities in hard-hit areas recover from disasters. We know that far too often, not-so-privileged households bear the brunt of weather-related disasters. We will ensure they have access to the resources they need to rebuild and recover, equitably. Today’s announcement sends a strong message: equity is elemental to the disaster recovery work of HUD and the Biden-Harris Administration.”

The recent announcement asks the public for feedback on how they can simplify, modernize and equally distribute recovery funds. There is a need for enhanced coordination among the department including the federal, state, or local partners to assist the communities and their families.

Several disasters impacted the nation over the last two decades and also brought to light the significance of effective disaster management at the Federal, State, or Local level. HUD plays a vital role in helping people relocate, addressing the housing needs of disaster-affected people, sheltering residents, and supporting long-term and sustainable recovery.

HUD’s Climate Action Plan prioritizes equitable disaster recovery. Consequently, the HUD must allocate resources in such a manner that equitably invests in underserved communities.
The communities getting the allocated funds including Alaska, Puerto Rico, Florida, Illinois, Kentucky, Missouri, and Oklahoma recover from disaster and build resilience. The funds will be used to provide relief from disaster and restore infrastructure, and housing in the impacted areas.