Disability Rights

FEMA services for individuals with disabilities include:

• Transportation services for people who use need help getting around;
• Emergency shelters;
• Practical sleeping arrangements;
• Places to apply in person;
• Online/Mobile registration;
• Braille, large print, and audio versions of important documents;
• Sign Language, interpreters, communication aids, and captioned videos;
• Service animal friendly shelters; and
• Medical care.

These services are managed by the Office of Disability Integration and Coordination. It helps governments and groups help people.

As an individual with a disability, you have a right to:

• Understandable Information. You should be able to understand and access all discussions, notices, and documents.
• Equal Opportunity. You should be able to do all things with the same ease as others. Programs should be adapted to your needs.
• Equal Access. You should be able to enter and use all facilities.
• Integrated Services. You should be in touch with your support systems and caregivers if you are displaced.
• No Charge. You should not pay for any changes to meet your needs.

Protecting your rights:

Disaster relief providers are not allowed to discriminate against you. If you experience unfair treatment, or cannot access relief services because of your disability, you can:

• Call the FEMA helpline at (800) 621-3362.
• File a complaint with FEMA’s office of Equal Rights at this website.
• File a charge of discrimination with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights at this website.
• Contact your local Disability Protection and Advocacy System at this website.

Helpful Tips

• Be ready to explain your disability to workers. You should be able to go to a shelter with anyone or anything you need to help you.
• Tell a trusted person where your emergency supplies are.
• Let state or local governments know that you are disabled ahead of time. This can make sure you get help quickly in an emergency.
• If your disability affects your communication, make sure your emergency information lets workers know the best way to communicate with you.
• Keep a week’s supply of medicines and supplies on hand.
• Prepare a kit of emergency things. For example, medication, food, water, batteries, chargers, and supplies for your service animals.
• Tell members of your support network how and where you are.