What is a Resilience Hub?
A Resilience Hub Network is a series of community-focused physical facilities that offer day-to-day services and support the community before, during, and after a disaster. Resilience Hubs are intended to complement emergency response and operations, not replace them. While some Hubs can offer information, accessible bathrooms, and cell phone charging, others can shelter residents and provide food and water during an emergency.
Description
Why are Resilience Hubs important?
When disasters strike, people across Austin need trusted community spaces to meet basic needs. When paired with ongoing emergency planning, disaster response, and sheltering plans, a Resilience Hub Network can help provide relief during extreme weather events and other emergencies.
As climate change brings more frequent severe weather and other disasters, there is a need for accessible community spaces, supply distribution centers, backup power and water, safe temporary shelter, and better engagement and information around emergency preparedness, response, and recovery. Although disasters and severe weather can affect everyone, low-income communities and communities of color are disproportionally impacted.
During non-emergencies, Resilience Hubs can equitably enhance community resilience by offering resources and community-building activities year-round. These trusted spaces can help strengthen neighborhoods and build local community power and leadership.
