Special Needs of Homeless Persons in Washington, D.C. in Disaster

This case study will identify and address special needs of homeless persons in the Washington, D.C Metropolitan Regoin during disaster events

Special Needs of Homeless Persons in Washington, D.C. in Disaster

Type of disaster addressed: Three high-impact, past disaster scenarios: hazardous materials spillage, malicious act endangering the vulnerable population, and pluvial flood
Type of danger addressed: Fire and smoke with dangerous properties, groundwater impacts; impacts on critical infrastructure (dwellings, social service provision facilities, transportation elements, shelters); need for temporary accommodations, changes in locations for obtaining basic resources and assistance

Special vulnerable groups: Homeless persons in and near disaster affected areas.

Other groups / communities: Other populations in vicinity, local authorities, public and NGO services sector.

Tools or technologies used: Interviews, simulation, mathematical modelling and solution.
Method of analysis: Stakeholder interviews, analyses of census data, mathematical conceptualization, computer coding
Real-life condition: Suggested changes to policies, preparedness and response actions and communication strategies specific to the needs of the homeless population of the study region.

Beneficiaries: All persons in the region, especially the homeless population. the first respondents and social policy makers in Washington D.C.

Innovation outcomes: Increase in social resilience of the fragile population against future hazards.

Research Infrastructure: Simulation and optimization platforms for implementing computational methods available at George Mason University, Va., the US