A simple and straightforward practice shows how a modest grant and local volunteers can have significant preparedness benefits for vulnerable residents in a community. The health department leveraged about $5,000 from Thrivent Financial for Lutherans and a total of 131 hours to purchase and compile emergency preparedness materials for people with special needs. This practice provided a tangible product that individuals with special needs could use, and it also may provide a channel for conducting public health outreach (e.g., important public health messages could be included with the bags). This collaboration between the local health department and a community/faith-based organization moved the county forward in addressing the preparedness needs of vulnerable populations; many local agencies could accomplish a similar project.
