2010 report to the President and Congress

The Commission is an independent, bipartisan body established by Congress and the President to identify gaps in disaster preparedness, response, and recovery for children and make recommendations to close the gaps. The Commission was instructed to conduct a comprehensive study to independently examine and assess the needs of children (0-18 years of age) in relation to the preparation for, response to, and recovery from all hazards, including major disasters and emergencies, by building upon the evaluations of other entities and avoiding unnecessary duplication by reviewing the findings, conclusions, and recommendations of these entities. The Commission reports specific findings, conclusions, and recommendations relating to: 1) child physical health, mental health, and trauma; 2) child care in all settings; 3) child welfare; 4) elementary and secondary education; 5) sheltering, temporary housing, and affordable housing; 6) transportation; 7) juvenile justice; 8) evacuation; and 9) relevant activities in emergency management. The Commission also provides specific recommendations on the need for planning and establishing a national resource center on children and disasters, and reports on the coordination of resources and services, administrative actions, policies, regulations, and legislative changes as the Commission considers appropriate.