HUD Deputy Secretary Todman Announces Release of Updated Guidebook During Visit to Mixed-Income Housing Site in Miami, FL: It’s Critical that Public Housing Agencies Have the “Resources and Tools to Take a Proactive Approach to Protect Their Properties and the Safety and Well-Being of Residents”
Release of Updated Guidebook Coincides with National Preparedness Month
Today, as part of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) efforts to support communities in disaster recovery and mitigation, and in recognition of National Preparedness Month, HUD released an updated version of its Public Housing Agency (PHA) Disaster Readiness, Response, and Recovery Guidebook to assist PHAs in effectively navigating the disaster process.
HUD Deputy Secretary Adrianne Todman announced the release of the updated guidebook while visiting the mixed-income River Parc housing site in Miami, Florida. While in Miami, Deputy Secretary Todman also participated in a fireside chat on resilience and inclusivity at the Smart City Expo USA and will address the U.S. Conference of Mayors on HUD’s efforts to boost the affordable housing supply.
“Preparing for the impacts of disasters is more important now than ever,” said Deputy Secretary Todman. “Natural disasters, often exacerbated by climate change, are increasing in frequency and scope, with vulnerable communities bearing the brunt of the impact. It is important that families and communities are prepared. This month, National Preparedness Month, HUD is pleased to announce the publication of our updated Readiness, Response, and Recovery Guidebook created especially to aid lower income communities. It is critical that housing providers have the resources and tools to take a proactive approach to protect their properties and the safety and well-being of residents.”
The update to the guidebook directly supports HUD’s Climate Action Plan, released last year as part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s whole-of-government approach to confronting the climate crisis. This plan includes actions to strengthen disaster recovery by updating policies and operations to create greater climate resilience.
Since its first publication in 2016, the guidebook has new sections on funding strategies, financial management, communications, and short- and long-term housing options for displaced families have been added. To further the comprehensiveness of the document, the guidebook is divided into chapters on readiness, response, and recovery and includes available resources, best practices, lessons learned, and clear guidance on a PHA’s roles and responsibilities.
“I have personally reviewed HUD’s Public Housing Agency Disaster Readiness, Response, and Recovery Guidebook, and found that even with all the local South Florida disaster planning materials that we use, this guidebook fills in information gaps regarding federal departments and assistance, and issues specific to public housing authorities such as operating and capital funds, and housing choice voucher administrative plans addressing relocation needs. It’s a practical guide and a job well done!” said Michael Liu, Director, Miami-Dade County Department of Public Housing and Community Development.
With additional guidelines in place to take preemptive measures, PHAs can feel more confident in their ability to respond to a disaster. By remaining proactive in assessing their risks, establishing relationships with their local emergency management agencies, and tailoring plans that ensure the continuity of operations and includes a robust communications strategy, PHAs can ensure an inclusive and equitable recovery.
Public Housing Agency’s can learn more about disaster resources here.