Alternative funding approaches can make a significant difference between an optimum recovery from a disaster and a mediocre or deficient one. This issue of Disaster Recovery Today discusses many of the alternatives available to a recovery planner.
Author John Agostino of Adjusters International offers a broad overview of various types of disaster funding, including where the funding comes from and who is eligible for it. He also provides a helpful list of references where more detailed information about many of the programs can be sought.
Understood and properly utilized, alternative funding can increase the chances for a fast, efficient and comprehensive recovery from a disaster.
The key to successful disaster recovery depends upon a robust strategy that includes planning and mitigation. Such a strategy takes into account where the community, city, state or region envisions itself after the completion of the recovery process. It is important to remember that many components of an effective recovery strategy are interdependent; if one part of a project receives funding while another does not, it can severely hinder the speed and/or breadth of the recovery.
With this in mind, looking at all available funds across as many sources as possible will strengthen the overall effectiveness of the strategy.