Local Councils
Purpose
Local Disaster Assistance Councils, or other local groups with similar functions, coordinate disaster relief activities to create the best means of serving the immediate needs of disaster victims, consolidating local immediate needs of disaster victims, consolidating local relief efforts, and reducing duplication of effort.
Background
Disaster Assistance Councils were formed in 1983 to bring together various government agencies, churches, labor organizations, private groups and individuals to assist disaster victims in the most efficient and economical manner.
Benefits
With the assistance of the state, local councils are being formed through agencies and private volunteer groups. Frequently, these local organizations are the first on the disaster scene to provide food, shelter, clothing, and other needs for disaster victims. This public-private partnership benefits disaster victims during major presidential declared disasters and local, non-federal events.
Accomplishments
Since 1983, the state has worked with local officials to form county, city, and community disaster assistance councils throughout the state. Member agencies of these councils have helped thousands of people, who otherwise would not have been able to obtain the assistance they needed.
Outlook
The state will continue to promote the establishment of local disaster assistance councils, or other groups with similar functions, by working with local government officials, volunteer agencies and businesses. The goal is to establish a local organization in every county in Washington State to facilitate the provision of immediate local assistance to local challenges.
Contact
For more information, please contact the Program Manager at (253) 512-7076.
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