Health & Education: Resources

Natural Hazards Center: Research Counts Series

A platform for hazards and disaster scholars to provide insights about research findings and the enduring lessons of disaster, as well as to raise new questions that are worthy of exploration.

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FEMA Podcast, Episode 83

The FEMA Podcast is an audio series available to anyone interested in learning more about the agency, hearing about innovation in the field of emergency management, and listening to stories about communities and individuals recovering after disasters.

Listen Now

 

Coping with Grief After Community Violence

This SAMHSA tip sheet introduces some of the signs of grief and anger after an incident of community violence, provides useful information about to how to cope with grief, and offers tips for helping children deal with grief.

Download

 

Mass Violence/Community Violence

This SAMHSA Disaster Behavioral Health Information Series (DBHIS) installment is a collection of resources about common reactions to incidents of mass violence, community violence, and terrorism; tips for coping with such incidents; and ways to support children and youth in coping.

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The Impact of Disaster and Mass Violence Events on Mental Health

This online article from the National Center for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) describes common reactions that disaster survivors may experience. While most reactions lessen over time, some may turn into long-term and severe responses, such as PTSD.

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Deep Dive: Mental Health Impacts in Medicaid Programs, November 6

As a result of COVID-19, states are experiencing severe declines in tax revenue, with projections indicating 5-15% reductions in revenue for fiscal year (FY) 2020 and reductions of 10-25% for FY 2021. A number of states have also been forced to severely cut funding for behavioral health services. Colorado has cut $26 million in funds allocated for behavioral health for FY 2021, while Florida, Georgia and Utah have cut funding for substance use disorder programs. According to the Center for Budget and Policy Priorities, the need for behavioral health care was already high before the pandemic, with deaths from overdose and suicide at near-historic and three-decade highs, respectively. Need has likely only risen since then, given the recent stress and trauma from the public health and economic crises. This session will explore how state Medicaid programs are addressing need while facing financial realities brought on the pandemic. It will also be an opportunity for state leaders to learn about the CSG Medicaid Policy Academies planned for 2021.

Register

 

Opportunity Makers: Melding Health and Equity in Rural Places, November 10, 3 – 4 PM EST

Resourceful and committed rural American health innovators are taking a fresh look at a wider range of practical answers to the question: What it will take to create healthy places where everyone feels a sense of belonging, lives with dignity and thrives? Some rural health professionals are transforming the way they work, creating a culture of hope along with health. They are increasing opportunity by integrating other components critical to better livelihoods – like preventative wellness, community agriculture and economic development action – especially focusing on those with lower incomes and in communities of color. New data tools are making it possible for rural health advocates to quantify and visualize health equity disparities within their community, which in turn allows them to be better advocates for their people and places.

Register

 

The Federal Response to COVID-19 from a State & Local Perspective, November 23

The rapid spread of novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) across the U.S. has been met with a decentralized and piecemeal response led primarily by governors, mayors and local health departments. With limited federal action, state and local governments have been required to lead efforts in combating the COVID-19 pandemic. Many of our state and local leaders have been faced with unprecedented decisions in regulating a public health crisis. In this session hosted by the CSG Intergovernmental Affairs Committee, hear from members of several leading membership organizations representing state and local governments on how federal strategy related to COVID-19 has impacted state and local jurisdictions.

Register

 

Healthy States: Curating State Health for the Future, December 15

Beginning with an exclusive deep dive on the role that telehealth has played through the COVID-19 pandemic and efforts to expand access to it, join the CSG Healthy States National Task Force for the unveiling of its best health care policy practices, the result of a two-year collaboration with state leaders for discussion and analysis. Health care issues identified by each of the task force’s four subcommittees include data and technology, investments and returns, behavioral health, community resiliency and more. In addition, this session will highlight states and showcase trends in these areas across the nation as experts and task force members detail what it meant and what it will mean to be a healthy state in 2020 and beyond.

Register

 

CDC Guidance: For the latest, visit CDC’s Guidance Documents. CDC COVID Data Tracker here.

  • Federal Government Adjusts COVID-19 Entry Strategy for International Air Passengers Information
  • Data on COVID-19 during Pregnancy: An MMWR study suggests that pregnant women with COVID-19 are more likely to be hospitalized and are at increased risk for intensive care unit (ICU) admission and receipt of mechanical ventilation than nonpregnant women. Risk of death is similar for both groups. But much remains unknown.  Information
  • * CDC Podcast Series: MMWR Weekly COVID-19 Briefing is a weekly podcast to update readers on the latest scientific information from CDC’s COVID-19 response. New episodes are posted every Monday.  Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher and Google Play.

 

Useful USG links:

 

USG Updates:

  • FEMA:
    • Lost Wages Supplemental Payment Assistance: Information
    • FEMA Policy FP 104-009-19, Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic: Work Eligible for Public Assistance (Interim) On March 13, 2020, the President of the United States declared a nationwide emergency for the COVID-19 pandemic. FEMA is releasing this interim policy to define the framework, policy details, and requirements for determining the eligibility of work and costs under the Public Assistance Program across all COVID-19 emergency and major disaster declarations. This policy applies to work performed on or after September 15, 2020.  As such, this interim policy supersedes the FEMA Fact Sheet dated March 19, 2020: Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic: Eligible Emergency Protective Measures, for work performed on or after September 15, 2020.
  • The U.S. Department of Agriculture:
    • Extends Free Meals for Kids Through December 31, 2020 Information
    • Extends the foreclosure and eviction moratorium for Single Family Housing Direct Loan Borrowers through December 31, 2020: Information
    • USDA-RD has taken a number of immediate actions to help rural residents, businesses and communities affected by the COVID-19 outbreak. Read the full stakeholder announcement here.
  • HHS:

 

October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month

The Department of Homeland Security is celebrating the 17th National Cybersecurity Awareness month.  This campaign helps all Americans access resources to stay safe and secure online, increasing the nation’s resilience to cyber threats. This year’s theme is “Do Your Part. #BeCyberSmart” and encourages Americans to enhance cybersecurity in every aspect of daily life. Since all online devices are potentially vulnerable, each weekly theme supports the overarching theme. Week of Oct 5: If You Connect It, Protect It. Week of Oct 12:  Securing Devices at Home and Work. Week of Oct 19:  Securing Internet-Connected Devices. Week of Oct 26: The Future of Connected Devices. These messages serve as a reminder to do your part in promoting cybersecurity awareness in our homes and our communities. For more information, visit the National Cybersecurity Awareness Month homepage.

 

International ShakeOut Day

With over 328 million people living and working in the United States, a major earthquake could cause devastation. Are you prepared? What you do to prepare now will determine how well you will survive and recover from the next big earthquake. Join FEMA at 10:15 a.m. on Oct 15 and “Drop, Cover and Hold On” for International ShakeOut Day. At this time in each time zone, millions of people from all over the world will practice earthquake safety. For more information, visit ShakeOut.org or Ready.gov.

 

Voting Rights for All of Us

The right to vote is seen as a fundamental element in shaping our Republic. This year, controversies swirl again about how that basic right may be exercised. Certain American populations have struggled for decades for voting rights. Check your voter registration status. Get registered to vote.

 

  • Voting Rights for Women: Did you know that Jeanette Rankin was not only the first woman elected to the U.S. House of Representatives (Montana 1916), she also introduced the legislation that later became the 19th Amendment to the Constitution?
  • Voting Rights for African Americans: Did you know that the first African American to vote was Thomas Mundy Peterson in 1870? Read more about how African Americans were treated under the Constitution and won the right to vote.
  • Voting Rights for Native Americans: Did you know that even after President Coolidge signed the Snyder Act in 1924, some Native Americans were not permitted to vote? For example, Miguel Trujillo of Isleta Pueblo, a Marine, fought to win the right to vote in NM in 1948. Read more on the complicated path Native Americans trod to the right to vote.

Department of Education Blogs:

  • CARES Act Funds and Personal Protective Equipment Purchase:  Reopening and safely operating schools during the COVID-19 pandemic has posed an unprecedented and ongoing challenge across America. Educators are on the front lines of our national effort to overcome COVID-19. Blog Link
  • Government-Supported Education Technology Products: As schools begin re-opening for the new school year, a group of 70 developers and researchers have collaborated to produce a new series of Guides to Education Technologies. The guides present information on government-supported education technology products that are ready now for in-class and remote learning. All the resources are web-based and can be used on either computers, tablets, or personal devices. The resources in the guides include a mix of no-cost products as well as ones that are fee-based. Blog Link

 

Aggie Homework Helpline

The Aggie Homework Helpline (AHH) is an initiative to help provide quality, free online tutoring to PK-12 learners and families. The mission of the AHH is to connect Texas families and school district partners with Aggie tutors and education interns who are committed to improving learning outcomes for PK-12 students.

Information

Addressing Inequities Related to Online and Distance Learning

In its latest Equity Digest, the Midwest and Plains Equity Assistance Center provides insight into the inequities experienced by minority students and communities in online and distance learning environments. The Center discusses challenges related to online learning (e.g., access, job loss, housing insecurity, health disparities, ongoing civil unrest), and ways to create a culturally responsive, inclusive, and more equitable education environment that mitigates these challenges.

Returning to School: A Toolkit for Principals: In the Classroom, at Home, or Both – Reuniting and Moving Forward Together

The National Comprehensive Center published Returning to School Toolkit for Principals which is one in a series of eight resources. This toolkit is based on the toolkit developed for the Principal Leadership Academy (PLA) at the Bureau of Indian Education (BIE). The PLA is designed and managed by BIE personnel with support from Region 13 Comprehensive Center to provide intensive, tiered, job-embedded training and support for school leaders.

 

Guide to Ensuring Education Equity During and After COVID-19

The IDRA EAC-South developed this Guide to Ensuring Education Equity During and After COVID-19 for education leaders and state officials that provides specific recommendations for policy and best practices to ensure education equity during and after the pandemic.

 

National Council on School Facilities PK-12 Reopening Workbook

A detailed list of over 100 tasks organized according to achieving public health in schools’ objectives, that can be modified for individual state, district or school application.

Information

 

Reopening K-12 Schools During the COVID-19 Pandemic- Prioritizing Health, Equity and Communities provides guidance on the reopening and operation of elementary and secondary schools for the 2020-2021 school year. The recommendations of this report are designed to help districts and schools successfully navigate the complex decisions around reopening school buildings, keeping them open, and operating them safely.

Information

 

When Crisis Calls – Look to Schools’ First and Forever Responders!

The National Comprehensive Center published a new blog article, When Crisis Calls – Look to Schools’ First and Forever Responders!, highlighting findings from the newly published resource, Schools’ First and Forever Responders: Preparing And Supporting Teachers In The Time Of Covid-19. The blog and resource discuss the challenges schools face and offer six considerations that can guide and support actions at district and school levels to support educators.

* American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP): Guidance for School Re-entry (Full Guidance Here). Returning to School Resource Collection: here

* State Plans for Reopening Schools for the 2020-2021 School Year: The Comprehensive Center Network has compiled a list of State Plans for Reopening Schools for the 2020-2021 School Year

* Department of Education: Coronavirus Resource Page

* OSHA Guidance on Preparing Workplaces for COVID-19: Information (pdf)

 

PROJECTN95

The National Clearinghouse to connect healthcare providers with critical equipment. They get personal protective equipment to frontline medical workers across America. Items like gowns, gloves, ventilators, and masks. Our team is coordinating with manufacturers and suppliers across the globe.

Information

 

Highlighting Strategies and Practices in Providing Related Services to Enhance the Continuity of Learning During COVID-19 for Children with Disabilities

The Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) presented the webinar Highlighting Strategies and Practices in Providing Related Services to Enhance the Continuity of Learning During COVID-19 for Children with Disabilities that focused on the provision of related services through remote and distance methods to address the critical, ongoing needs of children with disabilities during the COVID-19 era. This webinar included representatives from several related service national organizations, OSEP Centers, and university partners.

 

COVID-19 Threatens Black Middle-Class Gains

The Black middle class has made strides in recent years toward economic parity with whites in 34 states. COVID-19 is putting that progress at risk. YOUR STATE’S DATA

 

CDC, State, & Territorial Health Department Websites:

COVID-19 info and testing options found here.

 

Health Resources and Services Administration

HRSA Provides answers to frequently asked questions about COVID-19, ranging from funding other resources to information collection.

Information

 

HHS announced HRSA awards of %100 million to 1,381 health centers across the country with funding provided by the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2020.

Information

 

National Health Care for the Homeless Council

NHCHC maintains a webpage on COVID-19 resources, including a link to its archived webinar on Coronavirus and the HCH Community: Status Updates, Available Guidance, Local Preparations, and Outstanding Issues.

 

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development

 

School Meal Finder

Select your state and/or provide your address below to find meal sites while schools are closed. This site currently has data for Louisiana, Tennessee, Virginia, and Texas, provided by state education agencies, plus some data from California and Alabama provided by local districts

https://schoolmealfinder.hoonuit.com/

TX: https://txschools.gov/

LA: https://cnp.doe.louisiana.gov/ServingSites/

 

SAMHSA’s Disaster Distress Helpline

SAMHSA’s Disaster Distress Helpline provides 24/7, 365-day-a-year crisis counseling and support to people experiencing emotional distress related to natural or human-caused disasters.

https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/disaster-distress-helpline

 

Deaf/Hard of Hearing

  • Text TalkWithUs to 66746
  • Use your preferred relay service to call the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990
  • TTY 1-800-846-8517

Spanish Speakers

  • Call 1-800-985-5990 and press “2”
  • From the 50 States, text Hablanos to 66746
  • From Puerto Rico, text Hablanos to 1-787-339-2663
  • En Español

 

Coronavirus Rumor Control

The purpose of this FEMA page is to help the public distinguish between rumors and facts regarding the response to coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Rumors can easily circulate within communities during a crisis. Do your part to the stop the spread of disinformation by doing 3 easy things; don’t believe the rumors, don’t pass them along and go to trusted sources of information to get the facts about the federal (COVID-19) response.

Information

 

Coronavirus Pandemic: Eligible Emergency Protective Measures

Consistent with the President’s national emergency declaration for the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic on March 13, 2020, FEMA urges officials to, without delay, take appropriate actions that are necessary to protect public health and safety pursuant to public health guidance and conditions and capabilities in their jurisdictions. FEMA provides the following guidance on the types of emergency protective measures that may be eligible under FEMA’s Public Assistance Program in accordance with the COVID-19 Emergency Declaration in order to ensure that resource constraints do not inhibit efforts to respond to this unprecedented disaster.

Information

 

UrbanPlan for High Schools

UrbanPlan is offered at over 30 high schools in economics or government courses in the junior and senior years. In the 15 class hours of the curriculum, students form development teams to respond to a “request for proposals” for the redevelopment of a blighted site in a fictional community. Each team member assumes one of five roles: Finance Director, Marketing Director, City Liaison, Neighborhood Liaison, or Site Planner. Through these roles, students develop a visceral understanding of how various market forces (supply and demand, availability of capital, risk vs reward, etc.) clash and collaborate with non-market forces (regulation, politics, advocacy groups, etc.) to create the built environment. They must reconcile the often-competing agendas to create a well-designed, market-responsive, financeable, and buildable project.

Information

 

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) National Radon Action Month

EPA and the U.S. Surgeon General urge everyone to protect their health by testing the indoor air in their homes and schools for radon. Radon is a natural, radioactive gas that claims about 21,000 lives each year. It is the leading cause of death from lung cancer among nonsmokers in the United States. Exposure to radon is a preventable health risk.

Link

 

Pioneering California’s First Medical Center Microgrid

Kaiser Permanente implemented a microgrid that connects renewable energy and battery storage to a pre-existing, diesel-fueled backup power system at its Richmond Medical Center in California. By improving operational efficiency by as much as 20%, the hospital stands to save an additional 2.63 MWh of energy per year, resulting in annual savings of $394,000.

Information

 

 

FEMA Updates Procurement Disaster Assistance Team Field Manual

During the response and recovery of a disaster is the worst time for communities to realize they don’t know the process for requesting public assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Communities should be familiar with regulations and rules before it is needed. FEMA released an updated field manual on procurement processes after a disaster. The manual supports FEMA staff in providing accurate and consistent information to Public Assistance applicants on how to comply with the federal procurement under grant requirements.

Information

 

Readiness and Emergency Management for School – Psychological First Aid

Psychological First Aid (PFA) is an evidence-informed intervention model to assist students, staff members, and families in the immediate aftermath of a disaster or emergency event, and can be used by any trained staff member or school administrator. PFA is designed to reduce the initial distress and trauma caused by emergencies, and to help students return to their usual school-based activities after such an event. By using these brief and effective interventions in the form of the five steps of PFA (Listen, Protect, Connect, Model, and Teach), schools can provide a long-lasting, positive influence on trauma-related stress. Read more about PFA via our K-12 At a Glance and Higher Ed At a Glance pages.

10 Tips for Teaching the Psychological First Aid Model

 

Readiness and Emergency Management for School – Publications and archived webinars

Previously, the REMS TA Center wrote a Helpful Hints publication, PFA for Students and Teachers: Listen, Protect, Connect—Model & Teach, which is also available en Español. The REMS TA Center created an entire Web page devoted to the topic of Supporting Efforts to Create a Public Health, Medical, and Mental Health Annex as a Part of Your Emergency Operations Plan for you to find resources. This page is one of 20 in our topic-specific resources hub. The REMS TA Center also hosted a Webinar with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration on Implementing PFA in School and Postsecondary Settings and a Webinar on Trauma-Informed Care for Schools Before, During, and After Possible Emergency Events with Dr. Marleen Wong of University of Southern California Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work. Access these archived Webinars at any time to learn more online.

 

EMS Compass Revision Released

Initially released in 2016, EMS Compass is a set of 14 quality measures EMS stakeholders can use to evaluate performance and improve systems of care. The EMS Compass was recently revised by the National EMS Quality Alliance (NEMSQA). The August 2019 revision updates 11 of the 14 proposed measures of care within the topics of Hypoglycemia, Pediatrics, Seizure, Stroke, Trauma, and Safety. Quality measures look at clinical process, patient experience and patient safety within these topics.

Information

 

Completing your Hazard Mitigation Plan – The Mitigation Minute

Hazard Mitigation is best accomplished when based on a comprehensive, long-term plan. Hazard mitigation plans allow communities to understand threats from natural hazards and develop strategies to reduce the impacts of disasters.

FEMA Local Mitigation Planning Handbook. FEMA Hazard Mitigation Plan Requirement

 

URA the HUD Way

This 8-part web-based modular training course provides basic information and resources to HUD grantees and funding recipients on URA requirements for HUD funded projects. Module 1 provides an overview of the URA. Module 2 provides an overview of another Federal law known as Section 104(d), which applies to CDBG and HOME funded projects. Modules 3 through 8 provide greater technical training on various URA topics.

Information

 

FEMA Prep Talk: Our Changing World: The Challenge for Emergency Managers

David Kaufman is the Vice President and Director for Safety and Security at CNA and previously served as the Associate Administrator for Policy, Program Analysis, and International Affairs at FEMA.

Information

 

Youths make vital contributions to emergency preparedness

FEMA’s Youth Preparedness Council provides an avenue to make a difference. The Council brings together young leaders to complete local and national disaster preparedness projects and provide input to FEMA on strategies, initiatives and projects. Texas State University in San Marcos hosted a five-day course in June that taught teens from around the state – including members of the Aransas Pass Police Explorers Post – how to help in a disaster.

Information

 

FEMA Blog: 10 Items You’ll Need for Your Pets’ Hurricane Emergency Kit

The Atlantic and Pacific hurricane seasons began this month. While building your own preparedness kit, read the FEMA blog entry on what items you need for the furriest members of your family. One essential item to include in your pets’ preparedness kit is a picture of you and your pets together. If you become separated, this will help document ownership and enable others to assist you.

For more information on pet and animal preparedness, including how to care for large animals, visit www.Ready.gov.

 

Resource: Three ways to cultivate more green space in your community

From vegetable gardens to bike paths, the nonprofit ioby gives tips for starting three types of green space in your neighborhood. Green space provides a multitude of environmental benefits, including: reduced heat buildup, soil erosion, and air pollution, improved rainfall retention, water quality protection, and energy savings as well as benefits to human wellbeing, like: reduced stress and sedentary habits, improved mood, attitude, mindfulness, & creativity.

Information

 

Access to Historical Records: Archival Projects Deadline – October 8

The NHPRC seeks projects that will significantly improve online public discovery and use of historical records collections. The Commission encourages projects centered on collections of America’s early legal records, such as the records of colonial, territorial, county, and early statehood and tribal proceedings that document the evolution of the nation’s legal history.

Information

 

A Dual Disaster Handbook: Six Recommendations for Local Leaders Responding to Floods During COVID-19

The American Flood Coalition (AFC) and American Public Health Association’s Dual Disaster Handbook is a comprehensive resource to help local officials and emergency managers address the dual disaster scenario of flooding during the COVID-19 pandemic. This handbook draws on case studies and best practices from emergency management professionals to equip officials with six actionable recommendations for planning a proactive response as communities face multiple threats this season.

Information

 

Toxic Floodwaters: Public Health Risks and Vulnerability to Chemical Spills Triggered by Extreme Weather

This month, the Center for Progressive Reform published a paper highlighting the impacts of climate change on flooding and chemical spills, the public health risks associated with these events, and vulnerabilities for communities already grappling with chronic exposure to air and water pollution. Read the paper here. This document includes recommendations for regulatory and policy reform.

 

NWS National Seasonal Safety Campaign: Preparing the public for hazardous weather year-round

NOAA’s National Weather Service (NWS) wants you to be prepared for hazardous weather year-round. The aim of the National Seasonal Safety Campaign is to build a Weather-Ready Nation, one that is prepared for extreme weather, water, and climate events. Each campaign includes seasonal resources that provide information that is vital to keeping you and your loved ones safe. These materials include websites, articles, social media, infographics, videos and other content around the weather hazards most common during the current season.

Information

 

FEMA Offers Tips to Prepare for Extreme Heat

As temperatures increase, it is important to prepare for the extreme heat that summer can bring. Extreme heat is defined as a period of excessively hot weather, with higher than average temperatures for a region, combined with high humidity. Extreme heat events can happen anywhere in the United States. To learn more about how to protect yourself from extreme heat, visit the FEMA website.

 

FEMA Training Campuses Open Since August 2

In March, FEMA suspended in-person, campus-based training delivery. FEMA plans a limited re-opening of its training campuses effective Aug. 2. FEMA continues to monitor conditions and will adhere to state and local guidance and restrictions. The agency will announce any necessary changes to each course no later than the Thursday prior to the week of a scheduled course. FEMA’s top priority remains the health and safety of FEMA employees, instructors, students and visitors on campus, without compromising instruction quality and the student experience. If you are unable to comply with the precautions for any reason, contact FEMA to reschedule your training. Stay updated by visiting the FEMA website.

 

Treasury Updates:

 

SBA Paycheck Protection Program:

 

Information for Schools:

 

Smithsonian Institution COVID-19 Resource Hub:

The Heritage Emergency National Task Force has compiled relevant COVID-19 URLs from its members and other stakeholders. It’s heartening to see so many resources shared so widely. However, that means you will likely encounter some of the same resources as you delve into these links. A wonderful example of how heritage sectors are inextricably woven together.

 

FEMA NBEOC – Business & Industry COVID-19 Coordination Calls

FEMA is hosting our National Business Emergency Operations Center (NBEOC) Novel Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) themed calls twice weekly. The standard day-of-week/time will be Mondays and Fridays from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm EST. This is a business and infrastructure partners call . The teleconference will include an overview of the current situation, a discussion on supply chain issues, updates from available regions or sectors, and will conclude with an open forum for questions and information sharing. The NBEOC offers a platform to share information on impacts, operating status, and recovery challenges, as well as access to information to support business continuity decisions, and integration into planning, training, and exercises. Participation in the NBEOC is voluntary and open to all organizations with significant and multistate geographical footprints in the private sector, which include large businesses, chambers of commerce, trade associations, universities, think-tanks, and non-profits. Register: We invite those wishing to join the NBEOC to register for a NBEOC Service Desk account by emailing your name, email address, organization, and position title to NBEOC@max.gov with the subject line NBEOC Service Desk Access and complete the membership agreement. Business and Infrastructure partners are also invited to access the FEMA NBEOC Operations Dashboard via the following link: https://fema.connectsolutions.com/nbeoc

 

Prosperity Now:

  • COVID-19 Resources: Information
  • Cascading Impact of COVID-19 on Microbusinesses and the U.S. Economy: Information
  • Comprehensive Resource for Data on Household Financial Health, Racial Economic Inequality: Information

 

The Path to Zero: Researchers and Public Health Experts Unite to Bring Clarity to Key Metrics Guiding Coronavirus Response

Harvard Global Health Institute and others joined forces to launch new COVID Risk Level map and COVID suppression guidance for policy makers and the public. The Key Metrics For COVID Suppression framework provides clear, accessible guidance to policy makers and the public on how to target and suppress COVID-19 across the nation. Key Documents: Key Metrics for Suppression; TTSI Policy Briefing; TTSI Technical Handbook; Path To Zero Slidedeck; Listen: NPR Story

 

FEMA’s Coordinating Public Assistance and Other Sources of Federal Funding Fact Sheet

The extensive COVID-19 authority of other federal agencies in some cases overlaps with FEMA’s authority.  As a result, FEMA is releasing this fact sheet to provide clear guidance on how FEMA will treat these multiple sources of funding as they relate to the PA Program and its cost share requirements. Public Assistance Disaster-Specific Guidance – COVID-19 Declarations:

Information

 

Third Edition ACS Toolkit and Factsheet 

Alternate Care (ACS) Toolkit: Third Edition: This Toolkit was developed to help state, local, tribal and territorial (SLTT) entities to address potential shortages in medical facilities during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic. It is intended to provide technical assistance to SLTT entities in establishing and operationalizing Alternate Care Sites (ACS). Alternate Care Site (ACS) Toolkit Fact Sheet

 

On-Demand Webinars from Granicus:

  • Expert Advice on CARES Funding: Hear an overview of the CARES Act and stimulus funding landscape from the Grants Office, and discover what you need to know to better empower your community. Information
  • How Counties Can Offset Budget Shortfalls with These Revenue-Generating Services: Information
  • How Cities Can Offset Budget Shortfalls with These Revenue-Generating Services: Information

 

Resources for Reopening the Economy from IEDC

IEDC continues to offer resources to address the COVID-19 pandemic, with the launch of a new section of RestoreYourEconomy.org last month entitled: “Reopen Your Economy.”

Fraud and Rumor Control

  • Pandemic Response Accountability Committee: Information 
  • FEMA Rumor Control page – answers to coronavirus myths and rumors: Information 
  • Federal Trade Commission anti-fraud website: Information

FEMA Releases Updated Nuclear Power Plant Preparedness Course

The updated Introduction “Criteria for Preparation and Evaluation of Radiological Emergency Response and Preparedness in Support of Nuclear Power Plants” (NUREG-0654/FEMA-REP-1, Rev. 2.) training course is now available. It contains information on emergency planning rules for nuclear powerplants and gives Reasonable Assurance guidance. It focuses on preparedness for radiological incidents at commercial nuclear power plants that could impact public health and safety. The course is open to FEMA Radiological Emergency Preparedness (REP) community stakeholders, including State, local, and tribal government offsite response organizations (OROs), FEMA staff, Licensee OROs and other supporting federal government agencies. Register for the course on the FEMA website.

 

HRI, A&M-Corpus Christi, and Coastal Bend COG Partner to Build Community Resilience

Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi signed a memorandum of understanding to establish the Regional Resilience Partnership (RRP) with the Coastal Bend Council of Governments. This partnership will also offer virtual training sessions for local stakeholders, help local governments secure and administer disaster resilience funds, and help the University apply existing science and data to real-world projects to build the resilience of the Coastal Bend to better withstand disasters, including the COVID-19 crisis.

Information

 

Quick Links to COVID-19 Resources Related to Rural Infrastructure and/or Economic Development:

 

Cities for a Resilient Recovery: International Lessons on recovery from COVID-19

Each week the University of Manchester brings together relevant international practices and examples recovery from COVID-19. In this week’s briefing we highlight the role communities are playing in communicating urgent public health messages to vulnerable people within their own networks; how wastewater surveillance is being used to identify new outbreaks of COVID19; and the value of spare capacity (redundancy) across organizations and systems as businesses and government seek to maintain operations through current and future waves of the pandemic and into recovery.

Information

 

TRACIE adds resources to COVID-19 Workforce Virtual Toolkit  here

The Technical Resources, Assistance Center, Information Exchange (TRACIE) updated COVID-19 Workforce Virtual Toolkit: Resources for Healthcare Decision-Makers Responding to COVID-19 Workforce Concerns, a curated set of resources and tools for those managing healthcare workforce challenges in response to the COVID-19 emergency. Parts of this collection include resources from state, local and tribal governments, hospitals, EMS departments and other related entities. If you are a decision-maker and have COVID-19 promising practices, plans, tools or templates to share with your peers, please visit the TRACIE Information Exchange COVID-19 Information Sharing Page (registration required) and place your resources under the relevant topic area.

 

CDC Guidance: For the latest, visit CDC’s Guidance Documents.

  • Hand Hygiene: Hand hygiene is an important part of the U.S. response to the international emergence of COVID-19. Practicing hand hygiene, which includes the use of alcohol-based hand rub (ABHR) or handwashing, is a simple yet effective way to prevent the spread of pathogens and infections in healthcare settings. Information
  • Coping with Stress: The COVID-19 pandemic may be stressful for people. Fear and anxiety about a new disease and what could happen can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions in adults and children. Public health actions, such as social distancing, can make people feel isolated and lonely and can increase stress and anxiety. However, these actions are necessary to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Information
  • CDC Podcast Series: MMWR Weekly COVID-19 Briefing is a weekly podcast to update readers on the latest scientific information from CDC’s COVID-19 response. In each episode, MMWR Editor-in-Chief Dr. Charlotte Kent provides an overview of the latest scientific information published in MMWR. New episodes are posted every Monday.  Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher and Google Play.
  • Schools and Childcare Programs: Information

 

USG Updates:

 

Government Finance Officers Association Resources:

 

The Baker Tilly Public Sector COVID-19 Recovery Assessment tool

can help state and local government, utility and school district leaders assess the current impact of the coronavirus crisis on your entity and community, understand your level of preparedness for recovery in a possibly permanently altered environment and identify potential risks your entity may need to mitigate. How prepared is your entity to reopen, recover and reset?

Information

 

First Book’s COVID-19 Activation Network map

demonstrates the intense breadth and depth of need by plotting the thousands of educators funding requests we received in the wake of coronavirus-caused school closings. In partnership with PolicyMap, First Book developed the interactive map to both quantify and qualify the need. By clicking on the different map markers, you can see each individual educator’s story–read about their efforts to reach their kids amid shutdowns and social distancing, how they are working around limited access to Internet, and what they are doing to keep their kids engaged and learning.

Information

 

Local Food Systems Response to COVID

Building Better Beyond: USDA and its partners develop, share and assess resources on local and regional food system responses to COVID-19. The Local Food System Response to COVID Resource Hub was created through USDA’s cooperative agreement with the University of Kentucky, Colorado State University and Pennsylvania State University. This searchable database contains insights and educational material from 16 partner organizations represent a diverse array of market channels, from direct-to-consumer to restaurants and institutions, and stakeholder groups including representatives for tribal nations and historically underserved communities.

Information

 

Articles of Interest:

 

Why racism is a public health crisis:

As crowds of protesters took to the streets to protest the death of George Floyd, a Black man killed by police in Minneapolis on May 25, 2020, some questioned the wisdom of gathering to protest in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic. Protesters and public health officials responded: racism is a public health crisis too. We wanted to take this opportunity to share our new resource to learn more about which cities and counties have declared racism as a public health crisis; what such a declaration actually means; and the life and death implications of being Black in America.

 

ICMA Race, Equity, and Social Justice Podcast Series

Silence is no longer an option when it comes to social injustice, so ICMA is continuing the dialogue with this special audiocast series. We are speaking with local government leaders on various aspects of racial and social injustice—what they have experienced in the past, what they are seeing in their communities today, and what they anticipate as the path forward.

Information

 

Vaccine Planning

 

Analysis of Current and Expected Rental Shortfall and Potential Eviction Filings in the U.S. 

This report, produced by STOUT, estimates roughly 10 – 14 million renter households — home to 23 – 34 million renters — were behind on their rent by a total of roughly $12 – $17 billion as of September 14, 2020.

Information

 

HUD Issues CPD Memo: Availability of Additional Waivers for CPD Grant Programs to Prevent the Spread of COVID-19 & Mitigate Economic Impacts

The following Community Planning & Development programs are covered in these waivers: Continuum of Care (CoC), Youth Homelessness Demonstration Program (YHDP), and Emergency Solutions Grants Program (ESG). Waiver statement link: HUD/CPD Memo

USDA Extends Free Meals for Kids for Entire School Year

USDA previously extended child nutrition waivers through December 2020 based upon available funding at the time. The flexibilities extended today will allow schools and other local program operators to continue to leverage the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) and the Seamless Summer Option (SSO) to provide no cost meals to all children, available at over 90,000 sites across the country, through June 30, 2021. These program flexibilities allow schools and local program operators to operate a meal service model that best meets their community’s unique needs, while keeping kids and staff safe. Additional flexibilities are being granted on a state-by-state basis, as required by law, to facilitate a wide range of meal service options and accommodate other operational needs. Early in the pandemic, USDA adapted its summer feeding site finder to ensure parents and children would be able to easily locate sites that were providing meal service. With this new announcement, the Meals for Kids interactive site finder will continue to collect data, voluntarily provided by USDA’s state agency partners, about operating sites including location, meal service times, and additional information.

 

Schools: Response to Disruption Resources

The National Comprehensive Center  has unveiled its new Response to Disruption Resource Collection that includes numerous resources to help school administrators mitigate the impact of the disruptions currently facing districts and schools.

  • *NEW* The video Scenario Planning and accompanying slides provides an overview of scenario planning and outlines an eight-step process to create a set of scenarios to use in responding to an immediate crisis as well as for long term planning.
  • This toolkit, Tools for Success in Disruptions: Immediate Recovery and an Opportunity for Change for an state education agency (SEA), local education agency (LEA), or a school provides resources to support dealing with disruptions and addresses the needs of staff, students, and families, including the reopening of schools.
  • This brief, Better Together: A Coordinated Response for Principals and District Leaders provides a structured approach to manage social-emotional well-being from the district to school level.
  • This brief, Strategic Budgeting: Using Evidence to Mitigate the “COVID Slide” and Move Toward Improvement  for state education agencies (SEAs) and local education agencies (LEAs) assists in making the best decisions possible under difficult circumstances and offers a proposed process and series of guiding questions designed to help SEA and LEA leadership teams better leverage existing evidence to make strategic budgeting decisions.
  • The After-Action Review (AAR) Guide  for state, district, and school leaders to support with the improvement of education service delivery through a process that creates an environment for a team to analyze a situation and review what worked, what didn’t work, and what can be done to improve moving forward. This guide includes the basic questioning protocol for an AAR.
  • This Returning to School: A Toolkit for Principals provides school leaders resources to prepare for to returning to school, whether the return is to in-person instruction, at home learning, or both. This toolkit includes suggested actions, recommended resources, and quick tip sheets that support school leaders with addressing change, communication, collaboration, and care in the time of COVID-19.

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