Case Management
The disaster case management process is designed to help clients develop recovery plans that will sustain them when the service is no longer available.
The case management process involves an initial structured, approximately 90 minute interview, with a trained case manager. During the interview, the client relates the details of their experiences in the aftermath of the disaster. The case manager listens and gathers information about the client’s struggles, current plans, needs and resources. With the assistance of the case manager, the client develops the recovery plan. The case manager suggests referrals to resources expected to exist long-term to address any of the client’s unmet needs. For example, case managers may refer clients for credit counseling, financial planning, food stamps, mental health assistance, medical attention, and community action agencies. They also serve as advocates for their clients when negotiating or requesting resources from agencies. In addition, case managers provide emotional support as survivors go through the difficult process of recovery, celebrating with them as progress is made along the way.
LESM’s most recent case management initiative is administration of a FEMA grant awarded to Mississippi Center for Volunteer Services. The initiative, Mississippi Case Management Consortium (MC-MC), includes thirteen non-profit organizations providing disaster case management to clients who remain in FEMA trailers and other temporary housing. (For additional information, see MC-MC.org and Special Initiatives – Direct Service Funding)
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