DHRC Webinar Series Highlights Shifting Political Contexts and Opportunities for Fixing Broken Disaster Recovery System

NLIHC and members of the Disaster Housing Recovery Coalition (DHRC) launched a new webinar series, “National Call for Equitable Disaster Housing Recovery for Hurricanes Helene and Milton,” on October 24. Moderated by NLIHC Manager of Disaster Housing Recovery Noah Patton, the series highlights critical information about Hurricanes Helene and Milton and brings together organizations from across the country to collaborate on methods for fixing the country’s broken disaster recovery system.

The audience for the first webinar on October 24 comprised over 300 advocates and organizers who were invited to join the call to learn more about the immediate response to the disasters, hear directly from advocates and community-based organizations on the ground, and collaborate on real solutions to fix our disaster recovery system – like the “Reforming Disaster Recovery Act” – ahead of Congress reconvening in November.  

During the first call, Noah was joined by Samuel Gunther from the NC Housing Coalition, Andy Shoenig from the NC Inclusive Disaster Recovery Network (NCIDR), CJ Reynolds and Lauren Thornberg from the FL Housing Coalition, and Chauncey O’Dell Arnold from Statewide Organizing for Community Empowerment (SOCM) in Tennessee. These advocates and organizers grounded participants in what it is like working in the aftermath of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. All speakers highlighted the extensive impacts both hurricanes have already had, particularly for those with low incomes and from marginalized groups. Representatives of organizations also laid out their plans to fight for a fair and full recovery, whether by trying to enact eviction and foreclosure moratoriums, holding community workshops, or helping communities access the assistance to which they are entitled. 

The DHRC hosted the second call of the webinar series on October 31. Holly Oner from Legal Aid of North Carolina and Kathy Grunewald from Legal Services of North Florida broke down the challenges they have already seen preventing people from being able to access the federal assistance they need. The second half of the call focused on national updates, with presentations by Katherine Galifianakis from the Red Cross and Frank Matranga from FEMA. Both speakers emphasized the far-reaching impacts of the storms. 

During both calls, Noah explained how the disasters have shifted political contexts such that in their aftermath, there is a real chance of Congress passing a major disaster package after the election. The DHRC will continue to work to ensure that its long-term legislative solutions are attached to that package and invites all interested parties to join these advocacy efforts. 

The next call will take place on Thursday, November 14, at 3 pm ET. Register for the call here!