Be Prepared – FEMA’s Industry Liaison Program
National Preparedness Month is recognized each September to promote family and community disaster and emergency planning now and throughout the year. The 2019 theme is “Prepared, Not Scared.“
Since the early days of our history, Americans have always demonstrated perseverance and determination in the face of great challenges. Our nation’s efforts to be prepared for whatever lies ahead have contributed to our ability to consistently rise to the occasion when adversity strikes.
To help our country be better prepared the Department of Homeland Security has established FEMA’s Industry Liaison Program (“ILP”). The ILP creates strategic relationships with suppliers and stakeholders; serves as an information provider for suppliers seeking to do business with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (“FEMA”); and connects suppliers with program offices in support of FEMA’s mission:
“To reduce the loss of life and property and protect our institutions from all hazards by leading and supporting the nation in a comprehensive, risk-based emergency management program of mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery.”
FEMA’s goal with the ILP is to seek local companies within the disaster area for goods and services related to a specific disaster when practical and feasible.
FedBiz Access works with its clients across industries to complete their vendor profile for the ILP as part of establishing their foundation in government contracting.
Some of FEMA’s top procurement needs during a disaster include:
| Durable Medical Equipment Kits | Tools/Equipment |
| Consumable Medical Supplies Kits | Trucks/Forklifts |
| Infant/Toddler Products | Generators |
| Plastic Sheeting/Tarps | Building Materials |
| Blankets/Cots | Office Supplies |
| Comfort/Hygiene Kits | Portable Toilets |
| Water | Medical Professionals/Temp Labor |
| Meals | Janitorial Services |
During National Preparedness Month, the focus is on promoting a culture of preparedness to make our homes, businesses, communities, and country more ready and resilient in the face of natural, adversarial, accidental, and technological hazards. Just within the past year our country has faced natural disasters from hurricanes in Florida to wildfires in California. In spite of these tremendous challenges, the American people remain steadfast in their commitment to overcoming any adversity.
We also honor and express our immense appreciation for the brave first responders who risk their lives to help others before, during, and after emergencies.
The most integral part of an effective recovery following a disaster is preparedness at every level of government, in the private sector, and especially among individual citizens. Maintaining readiness starts by having an emergency plan in place before disaster strikes. Be prepared!
