Veterans Emergency Management Evaluation Center (VEMEC) is pleased to present a new toolkit entitled Disaster Preparedness to Promote Community Resilience Information and Tools for Homeless Service Providers and Disaster Professionals. The toolkit documents can be found on-line at https://www.va.gov/HOMELESS/nchav/education/VEMEC-Toolkit.asp. Many thanks to the VA National Center on Homelessness among Veterans for providing them a home for this work.

Individuals and families experiencing homelessness are among the most vulnerable members of our society. They become even more vulnerable during natural disasters or public health emergencies, particularly if homeless service organizations are damaged or unavailable. Enhancing preparedness and continuity planning for healthcare providers and homeless service providers can assist in reducing potential disruption of services. The toolkit provides guidance for identifying and collaborating with partners to address disaster response and recovery needs of homeless individuals. It outlines strategies to engage in preparedness and minimize service disruption from a disaster. Furthermore, it specifies how to enhance the capacity of healthcare settings with providers experienced in serving people who are homeless, and provide expanded care following a disaster or public health emergency.