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Flooding and natural disasters: Responding to the worst brings out the best |
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In 2017, natural disasters took their toll—physically, emotionally and financially—on communities throughout the United States and its territories. Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria, in addition to wildfires and other natural catastrophes, made last year the most expensive on record for disasters in the United States, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, according to data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). |
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Collectively, disasters caused $306 billion in total damage in 2017, with 16 events that caused more than $1 billion in damage each, based on NOAA's figures. The bulk of the destruction, at $265 billion, came from hurricanes. NeighborWorks America and its network of member organizations were quick to respond during these emergencies and continue to help long after the floodwaters have receded, working closely in affected areas to provide support—not only for cleanup, but to help prepare communities for possible emergencies in the future.
Following Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria, NeighborWorks America made $800,000 in grants available to 20 organizations in areas impacted by the storms to help them respond. NeighborWorks also held training events in affected communities to provide learning opportunities to nonprofits and others engaged in recovery efforts. |
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Veteran responders reflect as Puerto Rico prepares for hurricane season |
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Another hurricane season begins June 1, and three community-development professionals on the ground in Puerto Rico reflect on lessons learned, their most urgent needs and what keeps them optimistic. |
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Value of the network: Members from three states join to help Hurricane Harvey victims |
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When Hurricane Harvey hit, everyone knew the damage was so extensive that the efforts of multiple organizations were needed. That's the advantage of a network like NeighborWorks America and its 240+ members. In this close-up look, one joint action is brought to life. |
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Video: NeighborWorks responds to Hurricane Harvey |
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While Houston residents dealt with the devastation, NeighborWorks organizations in Houston, around Texas and across the nation responded immediately to help rebuild. |
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Learn to anticipate and 'leap forward' after disasters |
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The news is awash with the damage wrought by hurricanes Harvey and Irma. But these natural disasters should not have surprised anyone; they are only the latest in a string of worsening weather events that is expected to continue. |
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