When disasters strike, Black communities are often navigating layered challenges, from historical disinvestment to limited access to timely recovery resources. That reality is exactly why the Black Resilience Network (BRN) exists: to strengthen collective care, preparedness, and community-led solutions before, during, and after emergencies.
As part of our ongoing commitment to disaster mitigation and preparedness, we are sharing trusted, up-to-date information and tools from the American Red Cross to support individuals, families, and community organizations in staying informed, safe, and connected.
Why Disaster Preparedness Matters for Black Communities
Preparedness is not just about checklists, it is about dignity, agency, and survival. Disasters often magnify existing inequities, leaving Black communities with longer recovery timelines and fewer resources. By planning ahead, sharing information, and working collectively, we reduce harm and increase our ability to bounce forward together.
The Black Resilience Network centers preparedness as a collective responsibility, not an individual burden. Resilience is strongest when communities are informed, connected, and supported by reliable partners.
Disaster Preparedness & Response Resources
In times of severe weather, power outages, and community disruption, having real-time, trusted information is essential. We encourage members, partners, and community leaders to use the following resources to support preparedness, response, and recovery efforts.
Power Outage Tracking
Check real-time power outages nationwide: poweroutage.us
Shelter & Immediate Support
Find an open Red Cross shelter near you: redcross.org: Find an Open Shelter
Winter Storm Safety Guidance
Steps to help keep you safe as winter storms move across the U.S.: redcross.org winter storm safety steps
More tips: Winter Storm Safety: How to Stay Warm, Safe, and Prepared During Power Outages
Alerts & Emergency Tools
Download Red Cross emergency apps: Visit redcross.org/apps
Get emergency alerts by text: Text “GETEMERGENCY” to 90999
Follow Local Red Cross Chapters for Updates
Staying connected to local chapters helps ensure timely, location-specific information:
Red Cross North Carolina: www.facebook.com/redcrossnc
Red Cross Tennessee: www.facebook.com/RedCrossTN
Red Cross Texas Gulf Coast: www.facebook.com/RedCrossTXGC
Community Feedback Matters
Strong disaster response depends on two-way communication. The American Red Cross has emphasized the importance of hearing directly from communities about what is working and where gaps remain, so responders can stay connected to real, on-the-ground needs.
“Please let us know how things are working so that we can keep our local responders connected.”— American Red Cross, National Disaster Partnerships
Red Cross Point of Contact for National Disaster Partnerships
Earl R. Brown
American Red Cross | National Headquarters
Earl.Brown2@redcross.org
A Shared Responsibility
Preparedness and recovery are strongest when information flows from communities to responders and back again. The Black Resilience Network will continue to uplift trusted resources, partnerships, and tools that support collective care, safety, and long-term resilience in Black communities.
We encourage you to review these resources, share them widely, and integrate them into your household planning, organizational workflows, and community conversations.
Together, we stand ready informed, connected, and resilient.
