Disaster Systems Literacy for Social Workers

Disaster Systems Literacy for Social Workers: Understanding Recovery Systems

and Survivor Navigation

Disasters create complex and often overwhelming challenges for individuals,

families, and communities. Social workers are frequently called upon to support

survivors long after the immediate crisis has passed, yet many receive limited

training on the disaster recovery systems their clients must navigate.

This training introduces participants to disaster systems literacy- the knowledge and

skills needed to understand how disaster recovery programs, benefits, services, and

institutions interact. Participants will explore the major systems involved in recovery,

including emergency management, FEMA assistance, insurance, housing, public

benefits, and community-based resources. The training will examine common

barriers survivors face, such as documentation requirements, eligibility challenges,

misinformation, and service coordination gaps.

By the end of the session, participants will be able to identify key disaster recovery

systems, recognize common recovery bottlenecks, understand how disasters amplify

existing vulnerabilities and inequities, and apply systems-informed approaches to

client advocacy, navigation, and referral. This training is designed to strengthen

social workers' ability to support individuals and families experiencing the long-term

impacts of disasters and promote more equitable recovery outcomes.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify the major systems involved in disaster recovery and their roles in supporting survivors.
• Recognize common barriers and challenges individuals face when accessing disaster assistance and recovery resources.
• Apply disaster systems literacy concepts to case management, advocacy, and service coordination.
• Analyze how disasters interact with existing social, economic, and health inequities to influence recovery outcomes.