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Friday, January 17, 2025

Austin expands resilience hub program into comprehensive network

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Mayor Kirk Watson, City Of Austin | Facebook

Mayor Kirk Watson, City Of Austin | Facebook

The City of Austin has announced the expansion of its Resilience Hub Pilot Program into what is now called the Austin Resilience Network (ARN). This initiative aims to integrate city and community resources to help individuals better prepare for, endure, and recover from various emergencies.

Homeland Security & Emergency Management Interim Director Bill Wilson stated, "We are excited to expand the resilience program with the Austin Resilience Network. This expansion aims to build community resilience while accounting for the complex conditions presented during a disaster. The ARN will allow for a flexible, scalable community-based approach to disaster preparedness, response and recovery."

Initially, over 30 organizations helped identify six City-owned sites in Austin's eastern crescent as hubs where residents could access resources during disasters. The pilot program later included eight additional facilities. Funding facilitated by the pilot was used to equip these locations with supplies such as health and neighborhood community centers. Grants were also employed to install backup power systems at several sites.

A key takeaway from the pilot was that scalability and flexibility were constrained by focusing on specific physical sites. The ARN addresses this issue by forming broader community partnerships that connect needs with resources more effectively. It continues supporting physical hub locations while strengthening relationship networks.

The Homeland Security & Emergency Management’s newly established Mass Care Section plays a crucial role in developing ARN. This team manages shelter operations, food and water distribution, volunteer coordination, and implements ARN initiatives by working alongside non-governmental and community-based organizations citywide.

Organizations interested in joining ARN can apply through its webpage. A member of HSEM’s Mass Care team will contact applicants once forms are submitted. Partnering with ARN allows organizations direct resource sharing during disasters.

During emergencies, ARN partners receive updates from local emergency managers via HSEM’s Mass Care team communication channels like Coordination Calls when emergency operations are activated in Austin-Travis County. These connections ensure partners stay informed about urgent needs or questions through a dedicated hotline system.

For further information on Mass Care or participating in the Austin Resilience Network visit https://www.austintexas.gov/hsem-mass-care or learn more about emergency preparedness at www.ReadyCentralTexas.org.

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