The Office of Housing and Individual Assistance is comprised of our Housing Bureau, Individual Assistance Bureau and the Disability Integration Bureau. They also work directly with the different volunteer organizations that we deal with before, during and after a disaster.
The Individual Assistance Bureau coordinates resources to individuals, households, and businesses recovering from disaster or emergency impacts. After a severe weather event, the Office of Housing and Individual Assistance receives an influx of calls from residents of the impacted areas. If warranted, the Office of Housing and Individual Assistance will activate the Disaster Call Center to connect callers with the resources needed to return to pre-disaster status.
Before a federal declaration, voluntary agencies, such as the Mississippi Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (MSVOAD), the American Red Cross or the Salvation Army, are often ready to help take care of immediate unmet needs. These organizations may be able to assist with temporary sheltering or hotel vouchers, food, or clothing. Please contact local voluntary organizations in your area or the Information and Referral line by dialing 2-1-1.
The IA Bureau may be requested by the county emergency management director to validate Damage Assessments. The Damage Assessment Validations can help support the state's request for a Joint Preliminary Damage Assessment. The outcome of this assessment may result in a request for a federal declaration.
State Federal Programs may be requested if the Governor determines that recovery appears to be beyond the combined resources of both the local and state governments.
For more information, contact the Individual Assistance Bureau Director, Denise Gray-Hunt: dhunt1@mema.ms.gov
The Disability Integration Bureau is responsible for identifying the needs of individuals with disabilities and access and functional needs (AFN), coordinating resources and services, and collaborating with relevant stakeholders to ensure inclusive and accessible emergency management practices. The Disability Integration Bureau focuses on pre-disaster planning, training, attending conferences, connecting with local EMA at district meetings, and facilitating a task force for individuals with disabilities and individuals with access and functional needs during day-to-day duties. The Disability Integration Bureau also facilitates the MS Disability and Access and Functional Needs Task Force which enhances emergency preparedness for individuals with disabilities and access and functional needs.
For more information, contact the Disability Integration Advisor, Kimberly Robinson: 601-933-6662 or at krobinson@mema.ms.gov