Disaster Preparedness Workshops WRAP UP

STAMFORD – Western Catskills Community Revitalization Council (WCCRC) was one of 383 grantees selected to receive a 2025 AARP Community Challenge grant from AARP and @AARPLivableCommunities.  With this funding we presented workshop dedicated to emergency and disaster preparedness, equipping individuals, businesses, and communities with the knowledge and strategies necessary to navigate crises effectively.

WCCRC presented 8 workshops with a total of 88 participants at The Stamford Public Library in Stamford, the Cannon Free Library in Delhi, Windham Public Library in Windham, Stamford Village Apartment’s Community Room in Stamford, The Gathering Place in Oneonta, The Gathering Place in Cobleskill, and the HUBB in Margaretville. 

To encourage preparedness, attendees had a chance to win a weather radio and a Life Straw in our exciting raffle! Additionally, all attendees received a preparedness bag filled with emergency supplies valued at $35—because being ready for the unexpected starts with the right tools.

To encompass AARP’s mission, WCCRC utilized Volunteers over the age of 50 to create 100 emergency TO GO Bags which were handed out to program participants.  Bags included MRE’s, water, flashlights, lighters, rain ponchos, warming blankets, whistles, face masks, wipes, and hygiene kits.  

Our interactive workshop covered critical topics, including:

• Emergency and Disaster Preparedness Overview: Understanding risks and strategies for protection.

• Preparing for an Emergency/Disaster: Steps to safeguard families and assets before disaster strikes.

• Responding to an Emergency/Disaster: Actionable techniques for immediate crisis management.

• What’s Happening with FEMA? A current overview of federal emergency response efforts and initiatives.

• Additional Resources: Access essential tools, information, and expert guidance.

With disasters ranging from natural calamities to unforeseen emergencies, having a well-thought-out plan is essential. These sessions, led by WCCRC’s HUD Certified #T3TNNU Counselor Eileen Knott, provided attendees with practical insights and real-world strategies to enhance resilience and readiness. 

WCCRC has also been pre-approved to administer the NYS Rapid Response Home Repair Grant in the case that a natural disaster has been declared in the area and funding is released for rehabilitation.

For further information, media inquiries, or interview requests, please contact Eileen Knott at eknott@westerncatskills.org or 607-652-2823 ext. 105.