1. Bringing CSB resources to the table during disasters

2. Just a Note…
This presentation is focused on work the CSB does during a disaster that is outside of the scope of the CSB general preparations and operations related to storms. For the purposes of brevity – Disasters are generalized as “storms” and most examples are storm related.

3. Preparedness
Norfolk CSB, its services, staff, facilities, and consumers are considered part of the responsibility of the overall EOC operations in Norfolk.
The CSB has many actions to prepare our internal operations for the storm. (not the focus of this presentation)
In addition, the CSB participates in preparing our consumers and vulnerable citizens for the storm and for the provision of services for persons impacted (shelters & outreach to impacted areas).

4. Before the Storm
Outreach = To those vulnerable to the elements, specifically persons with behavioral health disorders living outside or utilizing overnight shelters.
Do they have a shelter plan? Will they need to use a disaster shelter? If insisting on staying outside, do they have provisions and know how to reach out for help if they change their mind?
If medically or psychiatrically compromised, do they have meds and medical supplies to prevent a crisis while in shelter?
If addicted to alcohol or drugs – is there a risk of withdrawal? What is the plan to mitigate the risk?

5. Before the Storm
Housed Consumers Living in Vulnerable Areas = Assessment is made by GeoMapping addresses of vulnerable consumers living independently and teams of staff go out to homes (this is primarily for PACT and Supportive Housing Program consumers with CSB and VSH):
Those in high risk areas (wind/rising water) encouraged to pre-evacuate. Those wishing to stay in place longer provided information on how to access evacuation shelters.
Those in high risk areas refusing to leave are provided with supplies to “shelter in place” –location notes for outreach mid-event post-event.
Note: consumers are highly encouraged to not live in repeated flooding areas (inside flooding) unless they can get a 2nd floor unit – but choice is choice…
Also those with federally funded vouchers are restricted. We also encourage renter’s insurance with flood coverage.

7. During the Active Storm
CSB is member of leadership team providing assistance directly at EOC or remotely. We provide guidance and services as needed.
Two primary functions during the active event:
Provide behavioral health specialists in evacuation shelters
Provide behavioral health specialists on transportation runs to evacuate residents

8. Immediate Post Danger Actions
Maintain behavioral health support in shelters
Provide outreach to vulnerable and storm impacted citizens
Targeted outreach to known CSB and VSH consumers:
Known supportive housing residences are visited
Landlords contacted to begin remediation and negotiate interim housing plans
Relocation assistance as needed
Relocate persons in flooded properties.

9. Recovery
Identify persons in damaged units and work with them and landlord to create a re-housing plan or return plan.
Assist with replacement of critical documents, supplies, and medical items.
Assist with assisting persons from leaving shelter and creating a plan for recovery, housing return, or re-housing.
CSB staffs evacuation shelters until the last person leaves.
Many times the last persons to leave were homeless prior to the storm and they are absorbed into the CSB Homeless Outreach program.

10. Team Norfolk CSB Roles for Staff
Maintain CSB Critical Operations
Facilities and EHR Staff work continuously through storm
CSU, ES, Group Homes (24/7/365); OTP & PACT operate when safe
Plus leadership members assigned to EOC functions
Staff Responsible for Intensive Pre & Post Immediate Intervention
Homeless & Housing Unit and PACT
Housing and Homeless consumers – prepare and immediately re-engage to assist.
Behavioral Health Team in Evacuation Shelters
Select staff with both leadership, judgment, and behavioral intervention skills selected for this rotating team to provide coverage to shelters and transportation.
At all evacuation shelters from opening till empty. 24 hours coverage
CSB Unassigned Staff Participate in Evacuation Shelters as general support
Select staff who are not in above teams
Rotate with the rest of the City staff in “manning shelters” for general shelter support

11. Recent Examples
Flooding Evac Shelters Winter Storm (2016) – School Auditorium Winter Storm (2017) – Norfolk CSB Olney Road Partnership provides massive flexibility, creativity to the event uniqueness, and resources (Faith Community, Businesses, other City Departments, other non-profits, and state)

12. Questions?
Executive Director – Norfolk CSB Norfolk’s EOC Manager –