NEW WINE CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP
Disaster Preparedness Manual
Table of Contents
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Page(s)
2
Biblical Base for Disaster Planning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . .
3-5
Churches and Disasters Preparation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6-9
The Four Stages of Disaster Response:
Phase 1: Response and Rescue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10
Phase 2: Assessment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . .
10
Phase 3: Organizing Relief . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . .
10-11
Phase 4: Recovery & Rebuild . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
11-12
Church Funding Disaster Response . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
12
Appendices:
Appendix A: Church Organizations involved in Disaster Response. .
13
Appendix B: Member’s Disaster Supplies Kit
14-15
Appendix C: Evacuee Information Sheet
16
Appendix D: Mission State of Long Term Recovery Group
(Identify what is your purpose and mission in assisting others)
17
Appendix E: Release & Waiver for Recipients of Disaster Relief Efforts
18
Appendix F: Homeowner Assistance Request Intake Form
19-20
Appendix G: Volunteer Intake Form
21
Appendix H: Relief & Waiver – Individual and Group Volunteers
22
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Introduction
A disaster is defined as anything that causes human suffering or creates human needs that the victims cannot
alleviate themselves.
According to Kiplinger Magazine, my home state, Louisiana, is the most disaster prone state in the nation. In
the past 8 years, the federal government has spent more than $100 billion dollars on disasters in Louisiana.
Living on the Gulf coast of Louisiana, with the seasonal threats of hurricanes and tornados, disaster
preparedness is a way of life. Our church has had the opportunity to serve our community in 3 major disasters.
(Katrina, Gustav, and Hurricane Isaac)
On August 29, 2012, St. John the Baptist Parish (County) was devastated by Hurricane Isaac. Nearly half of all
the homes (approximately 7,000), in our community were flooded and damaged in some way. In addition, two
of our largest schools and several local churches were flooded as a result of the storm. As a result of having a
plan on how to respond to disasters, our church, New Wine Christian Fellowship located in Laplace, LA was
able to play a vital role in all phases of disaster. We assisted local responders in rescuing nearly 4,000 residents
from their flooded homes and used our church campus as a temporary shelter and staging area until residents
could be bused to long term shelter facilities. Our church became “ground zero” for rescue and relief efforts. In
the immediate aftermath, we set up housing for the FEMA DISASTER RESPONSE CENTER (DRC). As a
result of our efforts in collaboration with other ministries and church groups, we were able to provide over
35,000 hot meals to our residents during the first weeks after the disaster and became a Point of Distribution
(POD) to distribute food, water, and cleaning supplies to several thousand residents. Lastly, we assisted in
organizing a Long Term Recovery Group (LTRG), in which we collected and distributed more than 1/3of a
million dollars of building supplies. We housed over 2,500 volunteers and assisted in the rebuilding of over
1,200 homes in the past 2 years. As a result of our church efforts, our community and leader’s received several
local, state and national awards. Our parish president was recently selected as county leader of the year largely
due to our efforts. In the following pages, I would like to share with you some of the things we have learned
about how the church should respond to disasters in their community.
Pastor Neil Bernard
Pastor of New Wine Christian Fellowship
Chairman of St. John Parish Long Term Recovery Committee
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BIBLICAL BASE FOR DISASTER PLANNING
Throughout the Bible men and women of God have been called upon to respond to disasters. Whether it was
Joseph responding to famine or Nehemiah rebuilding the broken down walls of Jerusalem or the church at
Antioch responding to a severe famine in Israel, God has uniquely gifted the church to respond in times of
disaster. In Matthew 25, Jesus states that as the righteous we are called to feed, clothe, shelter, and assist those
who are in need. When we do it to the least of these we are doing it for Jesus. The church as God’s body is
called to be the hands and feet of Jesus, especially in times of disaster. Local churches are in a unique position
to respond to individual needs in ways that no other organization or group can. Only the church can meet both
the physical and spiritual needs of victims in the time of disaster.
DISASTERS ARE INEVITABLE
Jesus said in Matthew 24:6 - And ye shall hear of wars and rumors of wars: see that ye be not troubled:
for all [these things] must come to pass, but the end is not yet. 7 For nation shall rise against nation, and
kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places.
8 - All these [are] the beginning of sorrows. The (NIV) says in verse 8 All these are the beginning of birth
pains. Just as birth pains increase in intensity as the time of delivery approaches, likewise as we approach the
end of the age, wars, ethnic conflicts, the famines and plagues and natural disasters will come in increasing in
intensity and frequency, just as a woman in labor. It is not a matter of if, but when.
In 2011, the Associated Press reported that “With an almost biblical onslaught of twisters, floods, snow, drought
and wildfire, the U.S. in 2011, has seen more weather catastrophes that caused at least $1 billion dollars in
damage than it did in all of the 1980s. Extreme weather in America in 2011 killed more than 1,000 people,
according to National Weather Service Director, Jack Hayes. The dozen billion-dollar disasters alone add up to
$52 billion.” The number of billion-dollar disasters in the U.S. has tripled since the 1980’s. In 2012, Hurricane
Sandy that hit the east Coast is estimated to have cost more than $72 billion dollars alone. Many of the disaster
relief ministries are experiencing disaster fatigue stating that they are not able to keep up with the frequency of
disasters that we are experiencing. Whether it is floods or tornadoes in the Midwest, fires or drought in the west,
snow or ice storms in the east, and hurricanes along the coast, it seems that in recent years there has been an
acceleration of disasters, of all kind.
DISASTERS PRESENTS OPPORTUNITY FOR THE CHURCH TO BE A WITNESS
In Luke 21: 25 - And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth
distress (Anguish, pressed down) of nations, with perplexity (a sense of being at one wits end. I don¡¦t know
what to do.); the sea and the waves roaring; 26 Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after
those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. Jesus said that as
we approach the end of the age, people will experience anguish, turmoil that people will come to their wit’s end.
Yet this is not a cause for alarm, because in times of great adversity we will see the greatest response to the
gospel of Jesus Christ. These are not times for us to be fearful, but rather to be prepared to make the most of
every opportunity.
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God will use crisis to draw people to Himself. There is a principle of harvest, the darker the times, the whiter
the harvest. People do not come to God when everything is going well, it takes affliction. In Luke 21; 13 - This
will result in your being witnesses to them. We need to pray, God how can I be a witness to my neighbor, coworker, and community in the midst of this crisis? How can we see the hand of God in the midst of crisis?
I believe Jesus gives us 3 practical steps that churches should take in times of disaster and crisis:
1) The need to be watchful. Matthew 24: 42 - Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your
Lord doth come. Watchful is another word for being prayerful. To watch means (to be vigilant, to be
awake, to be alert, and to give strict attention). In every crisis there is an opportunity for the church to
demonstrate the love of Jesus in practical ways; to be the hands and the feet of Jesus, but it requires that
we are watchful. Henry Blackaby states in “Experiencing God” that we need to see where God is at
work and join Him. We need spiritual eyes to see and spiritual ears to hear. When Hurricane Katrina hit
our area, we were evacuated in Vicksburg, MS. As we watched it unfold on TV, it was so easy to
become overwhelmed and not pray. You can become so glued to the TV that you do not want to pray.
The more the TV showed reports of looting and lawlessness, the more people became afraid and inward.
Even though our flesh did not feel like praying, we decided to call a prayer meeting and listened to hear
what God had to say. While in prayer, the Lord clearly told us that He desired to use us to be arms of
compassion to heal a hurting people. Thankfully, we received God’s perspective rather than man’s
perspective, because had we not prayed, we certainly would not have thought of opening our doors so
people would have shelter in the church. As a result, we provided shelter to more than 800 people,
served over 15,000 meals, and gave relief aid of food, clothing, and cleaning supplies to more than 7,000
thousand in need. Most importantly, we saw literally hundreds of people make decisions for Christ, it
was like revival. God was moving. Miracles were happening, with multiplication of provisions and
finances. It was one of our churches finest hours as we demonstrated the Love of Jesus to those in need.
2) We need to be ready and/or prepared. Matthew 44 - Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an
hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh. The word ready means to be prepared, ready to respond
or to do something (recognizing opportunity or the season.) It has been said that success is when
opportunity and preparation meet. It is possible to recognize the opportunity and not be prepared. Don’t
miss your season, because you are not prepared. It will require that you be ready to act in faith. We need
to be like the sons of Issachar. 1 Chronicles 12: 32 - And of the children of Issachar, [which were
men] that had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do. There is a need to
always be ready. We must be ready both in the natural and in the spiritual. If you know a storm is
approaching, we should prepare to have flashlights, food, propane, etc. Each year, we prepare by
updating our hurricane kits. The Bible says in Proverbs 22: 3 - A prudent man sees danger and takes
refuge, but the simple keep going and suffer for it. We need to be spiritually prepared as well; to
have a readiness of mind. You must be able to act when God says act or you will miss what God wants
to do. This is why faith is so important. Faith is stepping out into the unknown. It is believing that if you
give God your 5 loaves and 2 fish that He will do the miracle of multiplication and feed the 5,000.
During Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Isaac, we took a step of faith by assisting our community with
the limited materials we had prepared; food, water, and blankets. But as we used what we had, God
miraculously multiplied it by sending resources from all over the country. For example: during Katrina,
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the first week we opened our doors to provide shelter to the victims from New Orleans, an 18 wheeler
mysteriously pulled onto our church property with a truck load of disaster relief supplies of food, water,
and sleeping cots. The driver was lost and ended up in our parking lot with everything we needed to run
a shelter. When we are willing to be a channel of God to bless hurting and needy people, God will
supply the need. Philippians 4: 19 - But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches
in glory by Christ Jesus. Jesus said to be ready.
3) Lastly, The need to be faithful. Matthew 24: 45 - Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom
his lord hath made ruler over his household, to give them meat in due season? 46 Blessed [is] that
servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing. The word faithful means trustworthy,
reliable, worthy of confidence, faithful to discharge the duty given, (faithful in transactions and
business.) Faithfulness is the ability to stay the course until the job is finished. In order for a church to
respond effectively to disasters, they must commit to being faithful, to stay the course. Faithfulness is
essential in times of crisis. Disaster response is difficult and often requires sleepless nights. When a
community has been devastated by natural disaster, and your church takes responsibility to caring for
peoples physical, emotional and spiritual needs, your church will be inundated with request 24/7. After
the first few weeks of responding to disaster, the excitement wears off. You need to ensure that you
have faithful people who will stay the course. Luke 16: 10 - He that is faithful in that which is least is
faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much. Faithfulness will
always result in greater opportunities and greater influence.
It is my prayer that in times of disaster, that God will use your church to bring hope and healing to a hurting
world. In the proceeding pages I would like to share with you some of the things we have learned about how the
church should respond to disasters in their community.
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Churches and Disasters Preparation
How can Churches prepare to respond to Disaster in their community? The goal of this manual is to help you
prepare your church to develop a plan on how to respond to disasters.
Proverbs 22:3 (NLT) - A prudent person foresees danger and takes precautions. The simpleton goes
blindly on and suffers the consequences.
Proper planning before disaster enables a church to take full advantage of opportunities to minister to their
community in times of crisis.
Part of the local church's disaster preparedness plan should involve the following:
Relationally: Who are the people, groups, agencies I need to work with? To prevent duplication, a church
should have established relationships. If members need to be evacuated, do you have a partner church to
accommodate you? A church should make advance arrangements with other churches/agencies to offer its
facilities during an emergency.
Materially: What are the material supplies I need to have in times of a disaster?
Logistically: What can our church buildings provide community in times of disaster? If providing shelter, how
many people can we accommodate? Will the church be a distribution center of food, clothing, and/or cleaning
supplies?
Vocationally/Spiritually: What skills church members need to respond correctly in times of disaster? What
ministries can we provide, such as a food pantry, clothes closet, and/or financial assistance?
Relational Preparation
Relationally: Who are the people, groups, agencies I need to work with? Disasters have a way of bringing
people together who previously may have been unwilling to work together. Most disasters are usually bigger
than any one local church or disaster relief agency can handle. It requires a willingness to work together with
other individuals and groups who are often quite different. In times of disaster unity among relational networks
are essential. Identify those groups who you can work together with and determine to focus on the essentials of
the faith: Christ death, burial, and resurrection; the inerrancy of the bible, Salvation through Jesus alone.
An acronym for T.E.A.M is “Together Everyone Accomplishes More”. In times of disaster, it is essential that
churches are able to come together and share resources, manpower, and facilities. It is team work that makes the
dream work.
Pastors should ensure that other leaders share the load, because it is too great a burden for one person. In
Exodus 18:18-21 (NLT) 18 - “You’re going to wear yourself out—and the people, too. This job is too
heavy a burden for you to handle all by yourself. …21 But select from all the people some capable,
honest men who fear God and hate bribes. Appoint them as leaders over groups of one thousand, one
hundred, fifty, and ten.
Church leaders must first establish a plan to account for its members in times of disasters. In the aftermath of
Hurricane Katrina, many pastors were unable to contact their members and care for them during the worst
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natural disaster in history. Therefore it is essential that churches establish a system to account for their
members. A simple phone chain system can be implemented. Begin with church leadership and assign 10-12
individuals or families for each to call in case a disaster strikes. Leaders should ensure that everyone is located
and accounted for, assess what needs members have, and identify any members who may have been impacted
by disaster. In the event that a member cannot be contacted, a visit to their home should be made.
Church leaders should also be aware of any members who have special needs or circumstances that would
prevent them from evacuating in times of disaster. Living along the coast, we often have to evacuate during
hurricane season. This can be both costly and difficult for some members of our congregation. Therefore our
church has established an agreement with New Vision Fellowship of Brandon Mississippi, under the leadership
of Pastors Juan and Robin Jones. There church has been willing to provide emergency shelter to our
congregation during times of mandatory evacuation. It also enables us to build closer relationships with a
partner church. Please ensure that a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is in place with established church
which lists their guidelines, such as pets, number of people they can assist, time frame of stay, meals
preparation, supplies needed or supplied by host church, etc.
Church leaders should survey members to find out who has special vocational training that could be helpful
during a disaster (i.e. doctors, nurses, retired military, government employees, other emergency personnel, etc.)
Also, churches should make note of any special equipment that can be used in times of disaster. (Example:
generators, chain saws, smokers, and gas grills, etc). This information can be obtained by the leaders as they
contact assigned families. Compile this in the church database.
I strongly encourage churches to be a part of area wide pastor’s coalitions, networks and clergy alliance groups.
In times of disaster, no one church can serve all the needs of their communities. It will require the whole body
of Christ to serve the whole community. Don’t wait until disaster strikes to reach out to fellow churches, be
proactive in building relationships. During Hurricane Isaac, as a result of a group of pastors who were already
working together, we were able to quickly organize a response effort to serve our entire community of 46,000
residents.
Lastly, the pastor should establish relationships with local and state Emergency Operations Center (EOC)
Personnel. These relationships can greatly help us serve and protect our congregations in the event of a disaster.
Because of the size of our facilities, we established a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with our parish
EOC, to provide staging and temporary shelter to those residents impacted by disasters. As I stated in the
introduction of this manual, in 2012, nearly 4,000 residents were rescued from flooded homes and brought to
our church facility where members cared for them until they could be moved to long term shelters.
MATERIAL PREPARTION
Isaiah 25:4 (NLT) 4 - But you are a tower of refuge to the poor, O LORD, a tower of refuge to the needy
in distress. You are a refuge from the storm and a shelter from the heat…
In times of disaster, the church should seek to be a place of refuge for the community. In order to be a place of
refuge, proper planning is essential. Imagine hundreds of disaster victims showing up at the door of your church
with nothing but the clothes on their backs. Ask yourself the question, how would your church care for them?
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Over the past several years, this has become the reality for many churches throughout South Louisiana. Often in
times of disaster, local and state governments lack the personnel and supplies to serve people in times of great
need. Therefore, as the church we should be prepared to assist in times of disaster.
CHURCH SUGGESTED MATERIAL INVENTORY
• LED flashlights (burn brighter, last longer)
• Smokers (using wood and matches), gas/charcoal grills
• First Aid kits
• Tarps
• Tents
• Generators
• Non-perishable food, can openers
• Water (for drinking, cooking, cleaning, hygiene)
• Paper products
• Bathroom supplies and toilet tissue
• Bleach, hand sanitizer, other cleaners
• Cots/air mattresses/pillows/blankets
• Batteries (all sizes)
• Chain saws, other tools
• Bibles and other appropriate spiritual materials
• Rubber gloves and boots, face masks
• Portable communication system
• Wheelchairs
LOGISTICAL PREPARTION
Logistics is defined as detailed coordination of complex operation involving many people, facilities, or supplies.
During times of disaster, it is essential that we prepare logistically. I strongly encourage every church to
establish a Command Center that will coordinate all the details involve in disaster response while enabling the
ministry to continue to run smoothly. In most local churches this is the responsibility of the church
Administrator.
During times of disasters, churches are inundated with phone calls, donations, volunteers, and requests for
assistance. Establish a central office where everyone can be directed. This central office should serve as the hub
and should be staffed with appropriate personnel and equipment such as laptop computers, cell phones, church
database, and contact information of state and local emergency management personnel. Detailed records should
be kept of all transactions made during times of disaster, such as goods donated, who received assistance, value
of goods, and volunteer hours. For certain services, such as providing shelter or distribution of aid during
storm, FEMA may reimburse the church under certain circumstances. Therefore, accurate and detailed record
keeping is essential.
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During times of disaster, volunteer coordination is crucial to the success of a churches response. Therefore, it is
wise to establish a volunteer coordinator whose role will be to assign the appropriate people to the appropriate
task. Volunteer coordinator will be responsible for the following:







Assessing where the needs are/taking requests for volunteers
Recruiting volunteers/responding to offers to volunteer
Assigning volunteers to the appropriate task
Processing volunteer applications and/or background checks (See Appendix for a sample volunteer
application)
Tracking volunteer hours
Coordinating volunteer orientation
Assembly and daily updating of a volunteer manual with current information needed to answer questions
or making on-line updates.
Anyone wanting to volunteer should have a background security check. Volunteers should go to the local
sheriff’s department to get a background check. A small fee may be charged.
VOCATIONAL/SPIRITUAL PREPARATION
Disasters often create unbelievable ministry opportunities. After Hurricane Katrina, our church provided shelter
to hundreds of people from the New Orleans area whose homes were flooded. Many people who trusted in
material possessions for their security were devastated when they lost everything as a result of their storm. As a
result, it created a spiritual hunger in their lives. Every day we had the opportunity to pray with people who
realized their need for Christ forgiveness. It was one of the finest hours of the church as many people who had
not been in church for years, began to attend church regularly seeking hope. There are a number of Christian
ministries that provide specialized training for people who have been traumatized as a result of a disaster. I
highly recommend, that churches seek out specialize training for those members who have a heart for people
and want to share the gospel with them in their times of crisis. In times of disasters, the needs of children are
often overlooked. Churches should ensure that those who are gifted to work with children, be trained to minister
to them in times of disasters.
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THE FOUR STAGES OF DISASTER RESPONSE
Although every disaster is different, whether it is a Hurricane, Tornado, Flooding, Earthquake, Terrorist Act,
Explosion or Chemical Leak; every disaster has 4 main phases.
1. RAPID RESPONSE and RESCUE - Almost all disasters are unexpected and create chaos for those who are
affected. Response and Rescue is the initial phase where the focus is on protecting lives and property and
ensuring that the survivors are safe and secure from the disaster. Local and State governments assumes primary
responsibility for the response and rescue under guidelines of an Emergency Operations Plan (EOP). Fire,
police, rescue squads, and hospital emergency rooms move quickly into action. First responders also include
family, friends, and neighbors who provide first aid and shelter and call for needed help. Churches should lend
their full support and cooperation to those involved in Response and Rescue and be prepared to respond if
necessary. Some practical ways churches can help out is to seek ways to serve those on the front lines. During
911 many churches provided refreshments and prayer for the first response workers such as policeman and
fireman. Groups like the Red Cross and the Salvation Army often opens shelters to house and feed survivors.
Disasters such as hurricanes can totally overwhelm first responders and may require the assistance of outside
help. Churches should be willing to use church vehicles and facilities to assist where possible. During
hurricanes Katrina and Isaac, we were able to use our church van to pick up stranded survivors and use church
facilities to provide a safe and secure place from the disaster. These efforts should always be conducted in
conjunction and cooperation with first response efforts.
2. ASSESMENT - Once the emergency is over, assessment immediately begins. Immediately after disasters,
communities often rally together to support those who have been affected and to assist in any ongoing rescue
efforts. During this phase, assessments of property damage and any loss of life are initiated. In the event of
hurricanes, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Department of Homeland Security
agency which coordinates federal response to disasters may have pre-deployed teams to conduct a preliminary
damage assessment which the Governor of the state can use as a basis for requesting a Federal Disaster
Declaration by the President. Local Emergency Operation Centers (EOC) in coordination with other agencies
begin issuing incident reports and formulating plans to assist those in need. I strongly suggest that a member of
the faith base community participate with local EOC to mobilize church to participate in response and relief
efforts. As a result of the churches rapid response during hurricanes Katrina, Rita and Ike, many EOC in the sate
of Louisiana have included representatives from the faith base community. In order to prevent duplication and
maximize assistance to survivors it is essential that church personnel coordinate their efforts with government
and other volunteer agencies.
3. RELIEF - In the relief stage following a disaster, the Red Cross and Salvation Army, and other church
groups create safe, sanitary, and secure conditions for survivors by providing food, shelter, medical assistance,
and distribution of relief supplies such as personal care and cleaning items. While state and local officials are
responsible for rescue, the main actors in the relief stage are churches, faith base organizations, and other
volunteer groups. This is the time when church disaster preparedness comes into play. One of the most practical
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ways for churches to serve is to set up a Distribution Relief Center (DRC) where members of the community
can come and receive relief supplies. This requires lots of coordination and organization. During Hurricanes
Katrina, Gustav and Isaac, our church set up a Distribution Relief Center where thousands of residents received
much needed relief supplies. We coordinated with state and national relief agencies and churches to receive
much needed relief supplies and distributed them in an orderly manner. There are many state and national
organizations whose purpose is to assist communities in times of disasters. I have included a list of some of
them in Appendix.
Money and materials are donated to the most visible relief agencies. Each year in America, billions of dollars
are spent during times of disaster. As a result, people, who are motivated by greed, attempt to exploit survivors
by taking advantage of their vulnerability. It is important that church groups take the lead in assisting survivors
during this time. If your community is declared to be a national disaster by the President of the U.S., then state
and local governments, certain non-profit organizations, and individuals in affected areas are eligible to receive
financial and other assistance for response, recovery, and mitigation effort.
4. RECOVERY - The fourth and final stage of every disaster is recovery stage where the focus is assisting
individuals and organizations to restore their losses and return to being self- sufficient. Recovery phase involves
both short-term and long- term recovery.

Short-term recovery is immediate and overlaps with response activities. The focus is on some semblance
of normalcy. During short-term recovery, essential services are restored, transportation routes are
reestablished, temporary repairs are made on homes and businesses, and assistance programs are
launched. People who have been evacuated from homes have the opportunity to see them again,
assimilate damages and losses, and move from shelters to more comfortable temporary housing. During
this phase, churches can play a vital role in helping survivors with minor repair projects such as, gutting
houses, putting tarps on roofs and removing debris from homes. After Hurricane Isaac, Samaritans Purse
and other various church groups came to our community and assisted survivors by putting tarps on roofs
and gutting out 100’s of homes. If community is eligible for federal assistance, FEMA activates a
variety of programs to address disaster needs such as, grants and loans to individuals for housing and
other needs resulting from disaster losses, as well as public assistance to government and some nonprofit facilities to repair or replace damaged facilities, and hazard mitigation funding for measures that
will reduce future disaster losses to public and private property.

Long-term recovery involves the long process of rebuilding and redeveloping damaged areas. This
process can take several years and involve long-term reconstruction projects and rebuilding of
infrastructure. An often overlooked result of disasters is the trauma to people’s emotional and mental
health. After many disasters, the suicide rate as well as use of alcohol and drugs goes up sharply. In
order for survivors to restore their lives, they may need the help of mental health and spiritual care
workers. In every community there are vulnerable populations, who are uninsured or underinsured,
especially the elderly, single parents, and disabled, who find it difficult to recover after a disaster. This is
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why communities should establish a Long Term Recovery Group (LTRG) whose mission is to assist
those vulnerable groups to recover and rebuild after disaster. Shortly after Hurricane Isaac, a group of
non-profit, business, and faith base groups came together and organized the St John Parish LTRG. We
established a Volunteer and Donations Committee, Spiritual and Emotional Needs Committee, Case
Management Committee, Financial Committee and Construction Team Committee. Local businesses,
corporations, and church groups donated over $489k dollars to assist those who were uninsured and
underinsured. In addition we received over $300k of donated building supplies. As a result, we were
able to work together and assist over 1,200 families rebuild their homes over a 2 year period of time. In
addition, we were able to provide spiritual and emotional counseling to thousands of residents who were
traumatized as a result of the disaster. Our Long -Term Recovery efforts were recognized on a national
level as being one of the most successful. Our motto was “Team work makes the dream work
Church Funding and Disaster Response
In general, Americans are a benevolent people. As a result in times of disaster people are often moved with
compassion and give generously to help survivors of disaster. Millions of dollars will flow into non-profit and
church groups to assist victims of disaster. In addition, local, state and federal government will often spend
billions of dollars to assist communities in the aftermath of disaster. I have often said that in America, disasters
are a billion dollar business. With the release of finances come many temptations and require strict
accountability. After hurricane Katrina, the federal government spent 12 billion dollars assisting residents of
New Orleans. Unfortunately, many church and non-profit groups failed to implement strict accountability and
as a result, many brought reproach to the church and some even went to jail. As the church we are commanded
to be trustworthy in handling worldly wealth.
Jesus said in Luke 16:10-12 (NLT) 10 “If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones.
But if you are dishonest in little things, you won’t be honest with greater responsibilities. 11 And if you
are untrustworthy about worldly wealth, who will trust you with the true riches of heaven? 12 And if you
are not faithful with other people’s things, why should you be trusted with things of your own?
BELOW are a few helpful guidelines to ensure financial accountability:
 Keep good financial records, preferably electronic book keeping such as Quick books.
 Document all financial transactions.
- Make a copy of all checks received for recordkeeping.
 Provide regular financial reports to donors.
- Write thank you letters to all donors which include donated amount, date of donation, check number
and/or money order number, and Employee Identification Number (EIN) for tax purposes.
- Provide a copy of Income/Expense report showing how funds were disbursed.
 Ensure that you have regular financial audits.
- Non-Profits groups should file a 990 report to IRS on a yearly basis.
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA) can also complete a compilation or audit of all financial records
of organization.
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Disaster Preparedness Manual
APPENDIX A
NATIONAL FAITH BASED ORGANIZATIONS INVOLVED IN DISASTER RESPONSE
Church World Service- Emergency Response Program
http://www.cwsglobal.org/what-we-do/emergencies/us-emergency-response/
http://www.communityarise.com/
American Baptist Churches USA: Website: www.abc-usa.org
Catholic Charities USA: Website: www.catholiccharitiesusa.org/disaster
Church of the Brethren Disaster Ministries: Website: www.brethrendisasterministries.org
CitiImpact Ministries – www.citiimpact.org
Episcopal Relief & Development: Website: www.er-d.org
Habitat for Humanity International: Website: www.interchurch.org
Lutheran Disaster Response: Website: www.ldr.org
Mennonite Disaster Service: Website: www.mds.mennonite.net
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.): Website: www.pcusa.org/pda
Samaritan’s Purse - www.samaritianpurse.org
Somebody Cares America – www.somebodycares.org
Southern Baptist Convention Relief – www.baptistrelief.org
United Methodist Church/United Methodist Committee on Relief: Website: http://gbgm-umc.org/umcor/
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APPENDIX B
DISASTER SUPPLIES KIT
Flashlight with extra batteries
Use the flashlight to find your way if the power is out. Do not use candles or any other open flame for
emergency lighting.
Battery-powered radio
News about the emergency may change rapidly as events unfold. You also will be concerned about family
and friends in the area. Radio reports will give information about the areas most affected.
Food
Enough non-perishable food to sustain you for at least three days (three meals per day), is suggested. Select
foods that require no refrigeration, preparation or cooking, and little or no water. The following items are
suggested:
 Ready-to-eat canned meals, meats, fruits, and vegetables.
 Canned juices.
 High-energy foods (granola bars, energy bars, etc.).
Water
Keep at least one gallon of water per day per person available, or more if you are on medications that
require water or that increase thirst. Store a 3-day supply of water. Store water in plastic containers such as
soft drink bottles. Avoid using containers that will decompose or break, such as milk cartons or glass
bottles.
Medications
Include usual non-prescription medications that you take, including pain relievers, stomach remedies, etc.
If you use prescription medications, keep at least three-day’s supply of these medications. Consult with
your physician or pharmacist how these medications should be stored.
First Aid kit
Important Family Documents
Keep these records in a waterproof, portable container.
 Will, insurance policies, contracts, deeds, stocks, and bonds
 Proof of residence (deed or lease)
 Passports, social security cards, immunization records
 Bank account numbers
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APPENDIX B



Credit card account numbers and companies
Inventory of valuable household goods, important telephone numbers
Family records (birth, marriage, death certificate)
Tools and Supplies
 Checkbook, cash, and credit cards
 Paper plates and cups, plastic utensils
 Non-electric can opener.
 Personal hygiene items, including a toothbrush, toothpaste, comb, brush, soap, contact lens supplies, and
feminine supplies.
 Plastic garbage bags, ties (for personal sanitation uses).
 Include at least three complete changes of clothing and footwear, including a long sleeved shirt
and long pants, as well as closed-toed shoes or boots.
 If you wear glasses, keep an extra pair with your workplace disaster supplies.
Entertainment
 Games and books
 Portable music or game devices
General Information
 Your kit should be adjusted based on your own personal needs.
 Do not store toxic chemicals or controlled drugs unless prescribed by a physician.
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APPENDIX C
EVACUEE INFORMATION SHEET
Name (head of household) ____________________________________ Age: _____________________
Home Address: _______________________________________________________________________
Home Phone # : _____________________
Work Phone #: __________________________
Cell Phone Number: __________________
Alternate cell phone #:____________________
Email Address: (Home) _________________________
Other family members staying at shelter:
NAME
(Work): _________________________
AGE
DISABILITY
Yes or No
If yes, what is Disability?
1.
2.
3.
4.
Information of a contact person outside the area in case of emergency:
Name____________________________________________________________________________
Address__________________________________________________________________________
Home Phone (with area code) ____________________
Cell Phone_____________________
RELEASE
Waiver: As head of household, I understand that upon signing this waiver, I hereby release New Wine Christian
Fellowship, New Wine Development Corporation, its Staff, Volunteers, and Board of Directors from any and all liabilities
from injury or harm that may result from our stay on New Wine’s premises. This waiver will remain in effect for me and
family members listed above as long as we are on New Wine’s premises. I also release New Wine and all of its
subsidiaries from any accidents during travel to and from any destination while at their site.
___________________________
Signature of participant
____________
Date
_______________________________________
Parent signature if under 18
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APPENDIX D
ST. JOHN the BAPTIST PARISH LONG TERM RECOVERY GROUP
MISSION STATEMENT
The SJBP Long Term Recovery Group was created to address the needs of homeowners in St. John the Baptist
Parish in response to damage sustained from Hurricane Isaac.
The SJBP Long Term Recovery Group will strive to:
o Provide coordinated management of disaster long-term recovery to individuals affected by
Hurricane Isaac who are eligible for assistance with basic needs as a result of the disaster.
o Advocate for ongoing resources and preparedness within all voluntary agencies active in
disasters.
Qualified if homeowner:
o Is the legal property owner
o Had no flood insurance or no/limited coverage from homeowners insurance
o Is elderly, handicapped/special needs
o Is single parent
o Forced by mortgage holder to pay off mortgage with insurance or other proceeds
o Have been victims of contractor fraud or theft during recovery efforts
o Had homeownership documentation destroyed due to hurricane damages
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APPENDIX E
St. John the Baptist Parish Long-Term Recovery Group
RELEASE AND WAIVER OF LIABILITY for Recipients of Disaster Relief Efforts
PLEASE READ CAREFULLY. THIS IS A LEGAL DOCUMENT THAT AFFECTS YOUR LEGAL RIGHTS.
This Release and Waiver of Liability, executed on (date), ___________by (recipient)_________________________________________, in favor of
St. John the Baptist Parish Long-Term Recovery Group, its directors, officers, members, affiliates, their partnering organizations and St. John
the Baptist Parish is legally binding.
I, the Recipient, desire St. John the Baptist Parish Long-Term Recovery Group to engage in relief efforts and any such related activity on my
property. I understand that such activities could entail (but are not limited to) collecting and piling brush and debris, removal of downed trees from
structures/property, removal of damaged personal property and simple home repair on my property. I freely and voluntarily execute this release
under the following terms:
1. RELEASE AND WAIVER. I hereby release and forever discharge St. John the Baptist Parish Long-Term Recovery Group and its
partnering organizations from any and all liability, claims and demands of whatever kind either in law or in equity, which arise or may hereafter
arise from related activities with said organizations. I understand that this Release discharges said organizations from any liability or claim that I
may have against St. John the Baptist Parish Long-Term Recovery Group to bodily injury, personal injury or property damage that may result
from St. John the Baptist Parish Long-Term Recovery Group volunteers working on my property. I also understand that St. John the Baptist
Parish Long-Term Recovery Group does not assume any responsibility for or obligation to provide financial or other assistance, including but not
limited to property insurance in the event of damage or loss.
2. ASSUMPTION OF RISK. I understand that St. John the Baptist Parish Long-Term Recovery Group’s work may include work on and near
my property that may be hazardous, including but not limited to work with power tools and heavy limbs. I hereby expressly assume the risk of
property damage and/or loss due to volunteer activities.
3. INSURANCE. I understand that St. John the Baptist Parish Long-Term Recovery Group does not carry or provide insurance coverage for
any homeowner’s personal property.
4. PHOTOGRAPHIC RELEASE. I hereby grant unto St. John the Baptist Parish Long-Term Recovery Group rights to any and all
photographic or video images taken on/of my property, during storm-related activities, St. John the Baptist Parish Long-Term Recovery Group
for internal use or for reasons of publicity.
5. OTHER. I agree that this Release and Waiver is intended to be as broad and inclusive as permitted by local and state laws. I agree that in the
event that any provision of this Release shall be held to be invalid by any court of competent jurisdiction, the invalidity of such provision shall not
otherwise affect the remainder of this Release and Waiver, which shall continue to be held enforceable.
RECIPIENT’S SIGNATURE: __________________________________________________________
RELEASE OF CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION
I, (recipient’s name) _________________________________ authorize the Federal Emergency Management and any other partnering agencies
involved in disaster relief to release any personal information maintained by said agencies which St. John the Baptist Parish Long-Term
Recovery Group considers relevant and necessary for the purpose of provision of assistance and to avoid duplication of benefits.
I, (recipient’s name) _________________________________ authorize St. John the Baptist Parish Long-Term Recovery Group to release
information that is considered relevant and necessary for the purpose of determining assistance to other partnering agencies involved in disaster
relief.
I further understand that the release of this information does not guarantee that assistance will be provided, but that without this release, partnering
agencies cannot provide information to St. John the Baptist Parish Long-Term Recovery Group to assist with disaster-related needs.
RECIPIENT’S SIGNATURE: ______________________________________________________
NAME (PRINT) ________________________________________________________________
AFFECTED ADDRESS __________________________________________________________
CITY __________________________________ STATE ____________ ZIP ________________
Collected by: __________________________
on ____/____/________ at _____am/pm
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APPENDIX F
HOMEOWNER ASSISTANCE REQUEST INTAKE FORM
Name:
Alt. contact:
Phone #:
Alt. phone #:
Address damaged:
Location:
City, county:
Current residence (if different):
Fema $ ____________ Ins $ __________
Are damages covered by insurance?__ Yes__ Awaiting reply __No __ Uninsured
_Underinsured
Description of home: ___________________________________________________________
Ages of all household members: __________________________________________________
Does any household member have special needs?_____________________________________
Does homeowner need to be present for work to be completed? ___Yes
___No
Is the occupant the legal property owner? _____Yes _____No
Other info: ____________________________________________________________________
OUTSIDE WORK:
Do any structures require tarps? ___House ___Outbuilding
Need help installing tarp?
Size of required tarp(s): _____________________________
___Yes ___No
Is roof stable to walk/work on? ___Yes ___No Are trees/limbs on: ___House ___Other
Are trees/limbs blocking access to anything? ________________________________________
Number of trees needing cut? _____ Size of trees needing cut? _________________________
Other Info:____________________________________________________________________
WATER DAMAGE:
Water level in home:
 0”-6”  6”-12”  12”-18”  18”-24”  > 24”
Does your home have a basement or concrete slab? ___________________________________
Is there currently water in your home? ___Yes ___No
Part of house that was flooded: ___________________________________________________
Damaged appliance/furniture/flooring removal? ___Yes ___No
Do you need help removing any personal belongings? ___Yes ___No
Did any drywall get wet? ___Yes ___No Do you need it removed? ___Yes ___No
DEBRIS/DEMOLITION:
Non-vegetative debris on property? ___Yes ___No
Inside structure(s)? ___Yes ___No
Debris blocking access to: ___House ___Outbuilding ___Driveway ___Other
Heavy machinery required? ___Yes ___No Unsalvagable structure(s)? ___Yes ___No
Other info: ___________________________________________________________________
Repair Work:
Flooring:__________ Drywall:______________ Roofing:______________
Plumbing:_______________ Electrical:_________________
Other:________________________________________________________________________
Ability to Provide Own Materials:____Yes _____No]
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APPENDIX F
HOMEOWNER ASSISTANCE REQUEST INTAKE FORM
JOB DETAILS:
# personnel required: ____________________ Hours/days required: ____________________
Special skills required: __________________________________________________________
Tools or special equipment needed: ________________________________________________
Other info: ____________________________________________________________________
OTHER BASIC OR LONG-TERM NEEDS: □ Immediate Housing □ Household Goods
□Medical □ Financial □
Spiritual □ Rebuild □ Home Repairs □ Mold Remediation □ Other
Describe needs: ________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
What kind of specialist is needed? _________________________________________________
Other Agencies Contacted:______________________Referred to: ________________________
CALL/CONTACT LOG:
Date: _________________
Initials: _______________
Info: _________________________________________________________
Date: _________________
Initials: _______________
Info: _________________________________________________________
Date: _________________
Initials: _______________
Info: _________________________________________________________
Date: _________________
Initials: _______________
Info: _________________________________________________________
Map/drawing of property and work required:
JOB STATUS:
Work completed per day?_______________
____________________________________
____________________________________
____________________________________
Remaining needs per day? ______________
____________________________________
____________________________________
Vol. hrs per workday: __________________
____________________________________
Date Completed: ______________________
Completed by: _______________________
Status: ___Complete ___Partially complete
__Incomplete, referred to:_______________
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APPENDIX G
St. John the Baptist Parish Long-Term Recovery Group
Volunteer Intake Form
Name: _________________________________________
Birth date: ___/___/______
Address: ______________________________________________________________
City: ______________________________________
State: _____
ZIP: __________
Phone number: ______________________
E-mail: ___________________________
Occupation: ________________________
Employer: _________________________
Emergency contact: _____________________________________________________
Relationship: ____________________
Phone number: ________________________
Are you currently affiliated with a disaster relief agency? ___Yes ___No
If so, what agency? _____________________________________________________
PLEASE CHECK ALL SKILLS THAT APPLY:
____ Camper/RV – capacity and type:
MEDICAL:
____ Doctor – indicate specialty:
_____________________________
_______________________________
_____________________________
SERVICE:
____ Nurse – indicate specialty:
____ Food
_______________________________
____ Elderly
STRUCTUAL:
____ Emergency medical certification
____ Disabled
____ Damage assessment
____ Mental health counseling
____ Child care
____ Metal construction
____ Veterinarian
____ Spiritual counseling
____ Wood construction
____ Veterinary technician
____ Social work
____ Block construction
____ First Aid (current card? ___Yes ___No) ____ Search and rescue
____ Plumbing
____ CPR (current card? ___Yes ___No)
____ Auto repair/towing
____ Electrical
____ Survival training and technique
____ Traffic control
____ Roofing
COMMUNICATIONS:
____ Crime watch
____ Structural engineering
____ CB operator
____ Animal rescue
LABOR:
____ Ham radio operator
____ Animal care
____ Loading and shipping
____ Telephone receptionist
____ Emergency planning
____ Sorting/packing
____ Public relations
____ Law enforcement
____ Clean-up
____ Web page design
____ Emergency management
____ Debris clearance
LANGUAGES:
____ Firefighting
____ Operate equipment
____ French
____ Experience in supervising and
OFFICE SUPPORT:
____ German
____ Clerical – filing, copying, etc.
managing others
____ Italian
____ Data entry
____ Spanish
____ Software: _____________________________
OTHER SKILLS:
____ Other: ________________________________
TRANSPORTATION:
_________________________________
EQUIPMENT:
____ Car
____ Backhoe
__________________________________
____ Station wagon/minivan
____ Chainsaw
____ ATV
__________________________________
____ Generator
____ Off road vehicle/4-wheel drive
____ Dozer
____ Boat – capacity: ________________
____ Other:
____ Commercial driver – class and license #:
_____________________________
_________________________________
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Disaster Preparedness Manual
APPENDIX H
St. John the Baptist Parish Long-Term Recovery Group
RELEASE AND WAIVER OF LIABILITY for Individual and Group Volunteers
PLEASE READ CAREFULLY. THIS IS A LEGAL DOCUMENT THAT AFFECTS YOUR LEGAL
RIGHTS.
This Release and Waiver of Liability, executed on (date) _________, by (volunteer’s name) __________________________, in favor of
St. John the Baptist Long Term Recovery Group its directors, officers, members, affiliates, their partnering organizations and St. John
the Baptist Parish is legally binding.
I, the volunteer, desire to work as a volunteer for the St. John the Baptist Long Term Recovery Group and engage in activities, as
coordinated by St. John the Baptist Long Term Recovery Group related to being a volunteer. I understand that such activities may
include, but not limited to, tree and debris, application of tarps, distribution of goods. I freely and voluntarily execute this Release under the
following terms.
1. RELEASE AND WAIVER. I hereby release and forever discharge St. John the Baptist Long Term Recovery Group any and all
liability, claims and demands of whatever kind either in law or in equity, which arise or may hereafter arise from my activities with St.
John the Baptist Long Term Recovery Group. I understand that this Release discharges St. John the Baptist Long Term Recovery
Group from any liability or claim that I may have against St. John the Baptist Long Term Recovery Group with respect to bodily
injury, personal injury or property damages that may result from my activities with St. John the Baptist Long Term Recovery Group I
also understand that St. John the Baptist Long Term Recovery Group does not assume any responsibility for or obligation to provide
financial or other assistance, including but not limited to medical, health, auto or disability insurance in the event of injury or loss.
2. MEDICAL TREATMENT. I hereby release and forever discharge St. John the Baptist Long Term Recovery Group any claim
which arises or may arise on account of first aid, treatment or any service rendered in connection with my volunteer activities with St. John
the Baptist Long Term Recovery Group.
3. ASSUMPTION OF RISK. I understand that my volunteer activities may include work that is hazardous, including but not limited to
work around power tools, heavy machinery, as well as transportation to and from the work site. I hereby expressly assume the risk of injury
or harm in the volunteer activities.
4. INSURANCE. I understand that St. John the Baptist Long Term Recovery Group does not carry or provide health, medical,
disability or auto insurance coverage for any emergent volunteer. Each volunteer is expected and encouraged to obtain his or her own
medical, health, disability and auto insurance.
5. PHOTOGRAPHIC RELEASE. I hereby grant unto St. John the Baptist Long Term Recovery Group all rights to any and all
photographic and video images made during my service with St. John the Baptist Long Term Recovery Group for internal use or
reasons of publicity.
6. OTHER. I agree that this Release and Waiver is intended to be as broad and inclusive as permitted by local and state laws. I agree that
in the event that any provision of this release shall be held to be invalid by any court of competent jurisdiction, the invalidity of such
provision shall not otherwise affect the remainder of the Release and Waiver, which shall continue to be held enforceable.
Organization Name if applicable: _____________________________________________________
Volunteer signature: _______________________________________________________________ Date: ______________
Parent or guardian signature: ________________________________________________________ Date: ______________
(for volunteers under the age of 18)
Emergency Contact Information
Contact person: ____________________________________________________________________________________
Relationship to volunteer: _______________________________________________________________________________
Contact phone number: _________________________________ Secondary number: ______________
Collected by: _________________________
Page 22
on ____/____/________ at _____am/pm