Sheltering

  • Mental health (see Mental Health and Special Needs sections for additional information)
    • Mental health issues/concerns heighten to much greater extent in shelter settings
    • Necessary items should be prepared in your go-kit
    • Practice relaxation techniques to handle mental stress and prevent further anxiety
  • Disabilities
    • Be open and clear with specific needs (ex: wheelchair accessibility, need of personal aide)
    • Possibility of specific shelters for those with special needs or specialized medical needs
  • Dietary needs
    • Necessary items should be prepared in your go-kit
  • Pets
    • Transport them to pet-friendly locations before/during emergency. Most shelters do not allow pets unless they are service animals
  • Cultural tolerance and awareness
    • Tolerance of people from a variety of backgrounds is crucial to create safe and successful sheltering experience
    • Be accepting of different ethnicities, genders, ages, sexual orientations, socioeconomic backgrounds and disabilities