Poughkeepsie… The committee of Community Leaders brought together by Dutchess County Executive William R. Steinhaus to respond to the needs of Katrina evacuees has reconvened to review actions taken and strengthen preparations for future emergencies.

Last September, Steinhaus directed Health and Human Services Cabinet Director Betsy Brockway to organize an ad-hoc committee of Community Leaders to respond to the local American Red Cross chapter’s request for help in addressing the needs of the Katrina evacuees coming into the county.  Representatives from United Way of Dutchess County, Community Foundation, Interfaith Council, Family Services, American Red Cross and multiple county departments met and developed a list of community services for evacuees to access.

According to County Executive Steinhaus, “The success of this ad-hoc public/private partnership was the willingness of all organizations to come to the table on very short notice to have a single county-wide conversation concerning the evacuees’ needs.”

Steinhaus said communication was key, with an email network sharing timely information across agencies. Officials noted coordination helped address changing state and federal directives.

The collaboration expanded support services including health care, housing, education, and emergency assistance. The local Red Cross chapter also strengthened volunteer capacity and resources.

Steinhaus noted the committee will meet bi-annually and can be reconvened for emergencies. Preparation and coordination were emphasized as critical to effective response.

The County Executive concluded that the effort not only addressed Katrina’s impact but strengthened Dutchess County’s readiness for future emergencies.