Local and State governments share the responsibility for protecting their citizens from disasters, and for helping them to recover when a disaster strikes. In some cases, a disaster is beyond the capabilities of the State and local government to respond.

The Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, Public Law 93-288, as amended (the Stafford Act) was enacted to support State and local governments and their citizens when disasters overwhelm them. A Guide to the Disaster Declaration Process explains the declaration process and provides an overview of the assistance available.

There are individual assistance programs (an overview of individual assistance programs) that assist people and businesses following a disaster and help you get back on your feet.

The Public Assistance Program provides supplemental federal disaster grant assistance to help state and local governments and certain private non-profit organizations rebuild.

• Emergency Response and Salvage Steps
• Mobile Emergency Response Support (MERS)
• Disaster Assistance for Older Americans
• FTC Consumer Alert -- After A Disaster: Repairing Your Home

• Apply for Disaster Assistance?
• Get In Touch With My Family?
• Afford To Rebuild?
• Help When Disaster Strikes?
• Assist People with Disabilities in a Disaster

WHERE CAN I ...

• Get Food And Water?
• Find A Place To Stay?
• Get Crisis Counseling?
• Get Assistance to Help Heat or Cool My Home?

WHAT IF ...

• My Home Was Destroyed?
• I Lost a Loved One?
• I Lost My Job?
• I Don't Have Any (or enough) Insurance?
• I Lost My Business Or Farm?
• I Need Legal Help?

• What About My Pets?
• Fire Safety During or After a Disaster
• Am I Eligible For Federal Assistance? How Do I Apply?