Disasters are devastating for everyone but preparedness and recovery can be especially difficult for disabled persons. This is because people with disabilities are less likely to be involved in the disaster planning process, more likely to need assistance with evacuation, and are less likely to be made aware of proper preparedness processes that meet their needs. The United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction reported in 2023 that the majority of disabled persons worldwide do not have a preparedness plan, are unable to evacuate disaster areas without early warning notices, and are less likely to have access to or information available for disaster preparedness and recovery resources.
The National Council on Disability reported in 2019 that disabled persons are more likely to experience conflicting information, lack of access to disaster related programs, and lack of compliance with the law among recovery providers. This often leads to institutionalization and loss of independence or delayed disaster recovery.
Legal Services of North Dakota is available to provide assistance with navigating legal issues, applying for public benefits, submitting insurance claims and appealing decisions. Below is a list of resources for people with disabilities and people providing care disabled persons.
North Dakota Resources
- North Dakota Health and Human Services provides a variety of resources for persons with disabilities. Services include training and support for caregivers, vocational rehabilitation, independent living services, family support services, and funding for moves to or from a care facility. NDHHS also provides information and applications for Medicaid health insurance.
- The North Dakota Protection and Advocacy Project for Disability Rights provides referrals to other organizations, advocacy and legal representation, and protective services for disabled persons experiencing discrimination, abuse, or neglect.
- The Dakota Center for Independent Living provides referrals to other organizations, a peer support network, advocacy for disability rights, skills training for independent living, and transitional services that connect disabled persons with their community.
- The North Dakota Aging and Disability Resource Link assess your needs and connects you to resources- whether your a person with a disability or a caregiver for persons with disabilities.
- The North Dakota Disabilities Advocacy Consortium has a list of additional resources.
- High Plains Fair Housing Center can investigate suspected housing discrimination and make a claim to the Department of Housing and Urban Development if discrimination persists.
Additional Resources
- United Nations Office of Disaster Risk Reduction 2023 Study: https://www.undrr.org/report/2023-gobal-survey-report-on-persons-with-disabilities-and-disasters
- National Council on Disability Report: https://www.ncd.gov/2019/05/24/federal-report-highlights-trend-of-involuntary-institutionalization-during-and-after-disasters/
- World Institute on Disability Resources: https://wid.org/rights-disabilities-disasters-resources/
- Yale Law Journal: The Right To Be Rescued: Disability Justice in an Age of Disaster by Adrien A. Weibgen: https://www.yalelawjournal.org/note/the-right-to-be-rescued
Disaster Resource Directory
This list may be incomplete and will be updated periodically. Select your county for a list of resources specific to your area.
Adams County Food Pantry
Adopt-a-Block @ Dream Center Bismarck
Adopt-a-Block @ First Baptist Church
Adopt-a-Block @ First Baptist Church
Adopt-a-Block @ New Song Church parking lot
AID, Inc.
All Saints Episcopal Church Soup Kitchen
AMEN Food Pantry
Amidon Community Cupboard
