Disaster assistance to local units of government is typically provided by the state. In catastrophic events, FEMA and other federal agencies have resources which may aid impacted communities in their recovery. State assistance is provided on a regular basis and is not usually dependent on a disaster declaration.
State, Local and Community Disaster Recovery Resources
Minnesota Disaster Recovery Assistance Framework
The Minnesota Disaster Recovery Assistance Framework is a resource document that provides assistance program information from state, federal, local, and voluntary agency resources following a disaster.
This guide is intended to be of assistance to government officials and community leaders involved in managing, organizing, or leading disaster recovery efforts. It provides a comprehensive overview of the roles, responsibilities, and assistance programs that may be available. The guide briefly presents overview information, accompanied by contacts, Web sites, and other references, so that the user may seek out more details.
Minnesota Recovers Task Force (MRTF)
- Coordinates government resources for community long-term recovery needs
- Addresses certain un-met needs
- Assists with identifying hazard mitigation opportunities and resources
The MRTF, which is chaired by HSEM, helps get funds and assistance directly to those areas most affected by a recent disaster. When state funds become available, the Task Force will work with other state agencies to assist the impacted communities when their needs are not met by insurance or other assistance programs. Appropriated funds may be obligated independently by state agencies or collectively through projects identified by the Task Force.
Based on type, severity, and extent of disaster, subcommittees may be formed, and will meet on an as- needed basis. Typical subcommittees are:
- Housing
- Health and Human Services
- Public Infrastructure
- Natural Resources
- Agriculture
- Business and Community Recovery
The Task Force may create other subcommittees to address a community’s specific unmet needs.
Information, forms, and instructions of the MRTF will be posted to the Minnesota Recovers Website as appropriate for each specific disaster event.
Historic Preservation and Recovery
Historic buildings are among the tragic losses resulting from disasters. The Minnesota Historical Society's State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) will administer any appropriated funding designated for assisting in the recovery of damaged historic properties. When allocated, this money is made available to owners of historic properties who wish to restore their buildings and have exhausted all other sources of funding.
Federal Resources
Public Assistance Grant Program
Through the PA Program, FEMA provides supplemental federal disaster grant assistance for:
- Debris removal
- Emergency protective measures
- Repair, replacement, or restoration of disaster-damaged, publicly owned facilities and the facilities of certain PNPs.