When disaster strikes, it brings a host of challenges that can be overwhelming for family caregivers. Recently, Hurricane Helene has left a trail of destruction across the southeast of the United States, and the state of Georgia has announced the availability of disaster assistance for those affected in 41 counties.
While this assistance is important for everyone, family caregivers—particularly those in limited-income households—face additional challenges in making sure their loved ones are safe.
Ahead, we explore the types of disaster assistance available, how to apply, and what you can do to prepare and protect your loved ones in the face of a natural disaster.
Beyond the immediate concerns of safety, caregivers also need to take care of the well-being of their loved ones. Some of the challenges that family caregivers face may include:
Transportation can become a logistical nightmare in an emergency. Caregivers may have to navigate flooded roads, power outages, and overwhelmed emergency services.
The key to managing safe transportation during a disaster is to have a plan in place beforehand. Caregivers should identify accessible vehicles, map out potential evacuation routes, and prepare a list of items to take in case of an emergency.
Natural disasters often lead to disruptions in healthcare services like medication shortages, canceled appointments, and even temporary hospital closures.
To prepare for disruptions, caregivers should keep an emergency medication supply and have a list of alternative pharmacies and healthcare facilities. Refill prescriptions as early as possible when a storm or disaster is coming.
We also recommend you keep a file of important medical information, including prescriptions, medical conditions, and contact information for healthcare providers, in a waterproof bag that's easy to grab during an evacuation.
Finding reliable backup care can be particularly challenging during emergencies. With local services overwhelmed and community members facing their own crises, arranging respite care or emergency support requires foresight and planning.
Caregivers should build a network of local contacts like neighbors, community members, or nearby friends who may be able to assist during emergencies. You might also keep a list on hand of local organizations or churches that may also offer caregiving support.
Understanding what disaster assistance programs exist can help families navigate the aftermath.
The federal government has various disaster assistance programs that can support families impacted by emergencies. These programs are designed to address both immediate needs and longer-term recovery.
On October 2, 2024, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp announced that residents in 41 Georgia counties affected by Hurricane Helene are now eligible to apply for Individual Assistance and Public Assistance (Categories A and B).
State and local governments also offer disaster assistance programs tailored to the needs of their communities after disasters.
In Georgia, several resources may be available to support caregiving families:
Nonprofit organizations often provide disaster relief services that meet immediate needs, such as food, shelter, medical supplies, and emotional support.
Natural disasters like Hurricane Helene can bring unexpected financial burdens, particularly for caregiving families who may already be managing limited resources.
FEMA offers financial support through programs like the Individuals and Households Program (IHP), which provides aid for temporary housing and home repairs. This assistance is vital for caregivers needing a safe environment to continue care. FEMA also covers disaster-related expenses, such as medical or equipment costs, through its Other Needs Assistance (ONA) program. Applications can be submitted online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362.
The IRS provides tax relief to those in federally declared disaster areas, including extended deadlines for filing returns and paying taxes. Families may also qualify to claim a casualty loss deduction for damaged or destroyed property. To apply for these relief options, visit the IRS's website.
The Small Business Administration (SBA) offers low-interest loans to homeowners and renters for disaster recovery to make home repairs and replace personal property. These loans can cover costs for items critical to caregiving, like medical equipment or home modifications. You can apply online through the SBA's Disaster Loan Assistance portal.
Understanding the general requirements for these disaster assistance programs can help you access the support you need more efficiently.
To qualify for federal disaster assistance, you need to live in a county officially declared a disaster area and demonstrate that you have suffered losses directly caused by the disaster. Low-income and Medicaid-eligible families often meet the financial need criteria for many assistance programs, making them strong candidates for support.
For those who rent their homes, there are programs specifically designed to provide temporary housing or reimburse for personal property losses. Homeowners may be eligible for grants to repair damage that affects the safety and habitability of their homes.
To apply for federal disaster assistance, visit DisasterAssistance.gov or call FEMA at 1-800-621-3362. People who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability can use the TTY number 800-462-7585.
Different financial aid programs have their own set of eligibility requirements:
If you or a family member loses employment due to the disaster, you may qualify for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA). This program provides financial aid to those unemployed due to a declared disaster who do not qualify for regular unemployment benefits.
To apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance, contact your state's unemployment insurance office or visit the DisasterAssistance.gov website.
