Farrell highlights Strengthening Communities and CERT programs
Farrell describes NYCEM's Strengthening Communities grants for community preparedness networks, noting the Far Rockaway Arverne Nonprofit Coalition has participated since 2021. She also says CERT expanded with a Far Rockaway training that added 39 volunteers, and CERT members are canvassing at-risk neighborhoods through October.
Emergencies and disasters can strike at any moment, which is why emergency management is proud to offer several programs to help New Yorkers readiness and resilience.
The Strengthening Communities program offers grants to community networks to build their emergency preparedness plan and provide information to their neighbors during
time of emergency.
These networks were activated during winter weather and extreme heat and play a significant role in flood preparedness.
The Far Rockaway Arvern Nonprofit Coalition, or FRANK, has been part of Strengthening Communities since the program launched in 2021.
Frank provides various community programs and youth development programs within Far Rockaway and has connections with faith-based congregations throughout the community.
We will have an open application in October for additional networks throughout the city, and we'll work with the council to help amplify this opportunity when these applications open.
Additionally, Emergency Management recently expanded its Community Emergency Response Team, or CERT, program by delivering a local basic training in Far Rockaway,
adding 39 community residents to a volunteer corps of more than 640 members citywide.
Since its launch in 2003,
New York City CERT has grown to 24 divisions covering all 59 community boards, and it remains a critical resource in supporting New York City during and after disasters.
Building on that momentum, CERT members are conducting community canvassing through the end of October to share preparedness tips on coastal storms and flooding with residents in at-risk neighborhoods.
Emergencies affect every community differently, but we work with all communities to be prepared.
We want to thank the council as well for helping us with these measures.
from amplifying our messaging to being cooling center partners to helping us distribute masks during air quality alert days to being active with CERT.
We greatly appreciate your partnership and assistance.
Thank you for the opportunity to testify today.
We look forward to working with the council and we are happy to answer your questions.