Disaster Recovery
Meeting the needs of the community before, during and after a disaster.
ABOUT
The Disaster Response Program with Catholic Charities Diocese of Venice is dedicated to providing immediate assistance and long-term support to individuals and communities affected by natural disasters. We understand that during times of crisis, the need for aid and relief is urgent, which is why our highly trained and compassionate team works tirelessly to ensure timely and effective response. Whether it's hurricanes, floods, wildfires, or other catastrophic events, we are committed to being on the frontlines, offering essential services to those impacted. Our program encompasses a wide range of services, including emergency relief, food and water distribution, emotional support, and helping individuals navigate the complex process of recovery and rebuilding. Additionally, we collaborate with local and regional partners, government agencies, and volunteers to maximize our impact and reach as many people as possible. With a deep-rooted commitment to social justice and solidarity, we believe in standing together to provide relief, restore hope, and help communities thrive in the aftermath of disaster. Join us in our mission to bring aid and solace to those in need, and together, let's make a difference in the face of adversity.
Program Overview
Eligibility
Our disaster response is a comprehensive and efficient initiative aimed at providing immediate assistance and support to communities affected by natural or man-made disasters as well as long term recovery.
Emergency response, relief distribution, recovery and rebuilding, and long-term resilience are some of the ways we address the immediate needs of affected individuals and families while also promoting sustainable and resilient communities.
Through close collaboration with local authorities, first responders, and humanitarian organizations, we ensure a coordinated and effective response to disasters, including search and rescue operations, medical aid, and the establishment of temporary shelters.
We prioritize the distribution of essential supplies such as food, clean water, medical assistance, and hygiene kits to the most vulnerable populations, ensuring their immediate needs are met during times of crisis.
Our response goes beyond immediate relief by working with local communities to assess damages, develop comprehensive rebuilding plans, and implement measures that enhance disaster preparedness and adaptive capacity, creating a pathway towards a more resilient future.
In the event of a disaster, we will announce where our services can be found in your community.
Disaster Case management services are currently being offered for survivors of hurricanes and/or other disasters with the goal to meet clients’ immediate need; to acquire and or retain permanent housing, provide rental assistance and utility payments. We also help clients cope with changes while home repairs are being made and help clients access available resources.
HOURS OPEN: Monday-Friday 9 am-5 pm
WHO IS ELIGIBLE (include location if applicable): Persons within the Diocese of Venice who have been impacted by disasters.
HOW TO ACCESS SERVICE/Intake: CCDOV Website, walk-ins, referrals from partner agencies, programs within Catholic Charities, etc.
ITEMS NEEDED at intake (ie: id card, etc): Identification (i.e., passport, consular ID, driver’s license).
SUCCESS STORIES
Client is a single mother of two. She was referred to us by the Catholic Charities state office from Volunteer Florida. She worked at the Ritz-Carlton in Naples for 13 years, she had been laid off once before at the beginning of the pandemic. The hotel incurred heavy damage due to Hurricane Ian, therefore, client was laid off again. Client came seeking assistance with past due rent. Fortunately, client is enrolled with Habitat for Humanity housing program, which brings her closer to obtaining permanent housing but first she must complete the volunteer hours required and be presently employed.
Our agency was able to provide financial assistance in the form of rent payment assistance, gift cards for food, and other disaster related supplies. Client’s daughter is a full-time student at FSW and currently only has a part-time job. However, during our time of walking beside our client she was able to secure employment. She is now able to fulfill Habitat for Humanity’s requirement to continue with her process with them to hopefully achieve stable living environment.
"The program helped me with rent and utilities payment assistance, they were very quick to help, because they saw me helping myself." - Autumn
115,747 People assisted after hurricane Ian