Disaster Preparedness

At Habitat GPBC, we recognise the importance of being prepared for natural disasters — especially hurricanes and severe storms in our region. This Disaster Preparedness Plan outlines how we protect our staff, volunteers, homeowners and facilities before, during and after a disaster.

1. Purpose & Scope

This plan serves as a guide for disaster preparedness, response and recovery. It applies to our administrative offices, ReStore locations, construction sites, and families partnered through our homeownership and home-repair programs.

2. Pre-Disaster Preparedness

– Identify risks, especially hurricanes, wind events and flooding, specific to Palm Beach County. 
– Secure construction sites and material storage; ensure active builds are brought to safe condition. 
– Maintain up-to-date contact lists for staff, volunteers and partner homeowners. 
– Coordinate with local emergency management agencies and relief partners to align communication and response protocols. 
– Educate partner families on household preparedness: family evacuation plan, supply kits, utility shut-offs, pet planning, etc. (See homeowner-guidance resources).

3. During the Disaster

– The CEO activates the plan; COO/CAO/CRO provide assistance and situational updates. Habitat for humanity 
– Construction Director oversees securing all active build sites and ensures safety of crews and materials. 
– ReStore General Managers ensure staff check-in, secure merchandise and building is safe or evacuated as necessary. 
– Communications Director issues timely updates to staff, volunteers, donors and the public via website and social media.

4. Post-Disaster Recovery & Homeowner Support

– A post-storm damage-assessment team will inspect all Habitat GPBC facilities and sites; photographs and documentation will be uploaded for insurance claims.
– Homeowner Services will survey partner families to assess damages and needs; assist in documenting damage for insurance, coordinate with local relief agencies for repair and rebuilding support.
– Volunteers and donation drives may be mobilised for recovery efforts at impacted homes and community spaces.

5. Business Continuity & Operations

– Finance Manager ensures all legal and financial documents are securely backed up off-site. 
– All facilities and construction projects are insured appropriately. 
– If administrative offices are severely damaged, remote work arrangements will be implemented until repairs are completed.

6. Roles & Responsibilities

– CEO: Primary decision-maker for disaster-related activities and plan activation. 
– COO/CAO/CRO: Provide guidance and operational support as requested. 
– HR & Office Manager: Internal communication, staff coordination, safety protocol compliance. 
– Construction Director: Secures construction sites, coordinates with project managers. 
– Homeowner Services Director: Works directly with partner families for preparedness and recovery. 
– ReStore General Managers: Secure store assets, ensure staff safety, coordinate check-ins. 
– Communications & Marketing Director: External updates, donor/volunteer communication.

7. Review, Training & Updates

This Disaster Preparedness Plan will be reviewed annually at the start of hurricane season (April 1) or following a significant event, and updated as needed to reflect new risks, technologies or lessons learned.

8. Resources & External Links

– National Hurricane Center
– hurricane preparedness guidance  – Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
– disaster-readiness resources 
– Local Palm Beach County Emergency Management website – alerts and mitigation plans