GEMA/HS QUICK GUIDE 
 
GEORGIA EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT & HOMELAND SECURITY AGENCY 
 
FEDERAL DISASTER AID PROCESS 
 
When disaster strikes, the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency works with local, state and federal partners to coordinate efforts throughout the 
preparedness, response and recovery process. 
 
WHAT HAPPENS IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING A DISASTER? 
 
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GEMA/HS field coordinators contact 
local emergency management agency 
officials regarding potential resources needed for disaster 
areas 
 
Based on reports from EMAs, GEMA/HS coordinates with the 
Office of the Governor regarding the need 
for a state emergency declaration 
 
Based on estimated financial impact of damages, GEMA/HS coordinates with FEMA and local authorities to conduct preliminary damage assessments and determine if damages exceed federal monetary thresholds 
 
Upon approval of a federal declaration, federal resources are made available and could result in individual assistance 
and/or public assistance to impacted 
communities 
 
Local EMAs are responsible for reporting damages and requesting state assistance through 
GEMA/HS 
 
When the Governor declares a state of emergency, state resources may be 
deployed to support local governments 
 
If damages exceed the threshold, the Governor may request a federal disaster declaration from the 
President 
 
INDIVIDUAL 
 
PUBLIC 
 
TYPES OF ASSISTANCE 
 
Housing assistance, including temporary housing, repair, replacement, and semi-permanent or permanent housing construction 
Individual household programs help replace household items, furniture and clothing 
Other needs assistance including personal property and other items 
 
Grant assistance for debris removal, life-saving emergency protective measures, and the repair, replacement or restoration of certain disasterdamaged public facilities and certain non-profit 
facilities 
Hazard mitigation may be made available to help communities take measures to reduce or eliminate 
future risks to life and property 
 
WWW.GEMA.GA.GOV 
 
1-800-TRY-GEMA