CDP partners with FEMA's Office of Disability Integration and Coordination

The CDP is partnering with FEMA’s Office of Disability Integration and Coordination (ODIC) to enhance what it currently teaches responders about dealing with persons with disabilities.

That partnership brought Linda Mastandrea, the ODIC director, to the CDP Aug. 29-30 for a tour and discussions with Center leaders. 

Mastandrea said the primary role of the ODIC is to help FEMA and its state, local, territorial and tribal partners build their capacity to serve people with disabilities before, during and after disasters. Consequently, the ODIC is excited “to partner with the CDP and provide first responders with the tools and resources they need to effectively serve people with disabilities in a disaster,” she said. 

Mastandrea, who has cerebral palsy and uses a wheelchair, said it is important responders and emergency managers consider people with disabilities, particularly when it comes to emergency response planning.

“It (the consideration of people with disabilities) should not be an afterthought,” she said.