Embedding Equity Into Disaster Preparedness Efforts in Child Welfare

Disasters disproportionately impact and widen disparities for people of diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds. Disasters are also resource intensive and can overwhelm child welfare systems that are designed for routine operations, making it difficult for agencies to implement equitable practices when disasters hit. Therefore, it is critical for child welfare agencies to build equitable approaches into their disaster preparedness and response (DPR) initiatives. This factsheet presents strategies for reducing disparities in child welfare DPR efforts for children, youth, and families of diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds.