Providing Disaster Assistance

Local authorities are the first to respond to the needs of disaster survivors. Disasters can significantly reduce their ability to provide services. State and federal assistance may be available after a disaster to help by coordinating and managing disaster behavioral health preparedness, response and recovery efforts for Texas before, during and after a local, state or federally declared emergency or disaster. These services include coordinating stress management and crisis counseling services at the local level.

Crisis Counseling 

The tragic incident of mass violence in El Paso will impact the whole community and country at large. It is common for all involved to experience emotional distress. Feelings such as increased anxiety or depression-like symptoms are common. At risk of emotional distress are survivors, family members, friends, first responders, recovery workers, and community members.

Resources for Care Providers and Administrators

Available from the Center for the Study of Traumatic Stress at the Uniformed Services University:

D-SNAP

HHSC coordinates with county governments before and after major disasters to ensure that the Disaster SNAP program operates effectively. To learn more, visit our Operating Disaster SNAP with County Stakeholders webpage.

Medicaid CHIP

A disaster can affect Medicaid/CHIP providers and managed care organizations' operations and disrupt services to clients. If an event happens and you are affected in a way that requires flexibility from your contract or daily course of business, click here for specific information.