The National Commission on Children and Disasters has delivered a report to the White House and Congressional leaders that revealed only modest progress of federal agencies in implementing recommendations designed to ensure better protections of children during major domestic disasters.
The
National Commission on Children and Disasters has delivered a report to the
White House and Congressional leaders that revealed only modest progress of
federal agencies in implementing recommendations designed to ensure better
protections of children during major domestic disasters.
The new
report (www.childrenanddisasters.acf.hhs.gov) measured the response of six federal agencies to an earlier
commission report released in late 2009 that identified several shortcomings in
disaster preparedness, response and recovery.
The
Commission found signs of progress in the design of safer emergency sheltering
environments for children. However, the report also showed federal
agencies made limited progress in pediatric disaster medical care and training,
disaster mental health research, and the need to encourage states and child
care providers to improve their disaster preparedness plans.
“Hurricane
Season is just around the corner. Kids are the most vulnerable Americans during
disasters. To protect children, much more needs to be done, and it needs
to be done now,” said Mark Shriver, Chairperson of the Commission.
Disasters
are especially traumatic and disruptive for children. Following a catastrophic
event like a hurricane, earthquake or flood, it is essential for schools and
child care centers to have plans for evacuation and reunification with
families. Shelters need to have age-appropriate supplies, like formula, diapers
and cribs. All settings must have a plan for children with disabilities.
The
Progress Report urges the Obama Administration and Congress to take bold and
swift action to prepare and respond to the unique needs of children in
disasters. The Commission calls for the White House to develop a National
Strategy for Children and Disasters to command better integration, coordination
and outcomes from federal agencies and state, Tribal, local, and
non-governmental partners. Congress must provide adequate resources to support
first responders, hospitals and a national disaster human services case
management program to meet the recovery needs of children and families.
The
National Commission on Children and Disasters is an independent, bipartisan
Commission established to examine and assess the needs of children in the
preparation for, response to, and recovery from all hazards. The next
Commission report is due to the President and Congress in October 2010.