Earlier this year we collected helpful disaster recovery resources for government records. After Tropical Cyclone Francine made landfall in the gulf coast last week, we’d like to shine a spotlight on recovery of another important type of community asset, art and cultural heritage objects. Art and artifacts have special needs when it comes to recovery, so getting help from an expert can be crucial after a disaster.
Cultural Institutions, Arts Organizations, and Performing Arts Groups
The Heritage Emergency National Task Force (HENTF) is a public-private partnership between FEMA and the Smithsonian Institution which supports response and recovery efforts of art and cultural objects. They provide Rapid Damage Assessment Forms, which can be filled out by arts and cultural organizations affected by disasters:
Affected organizations can also call the National Heritage Responders hotline: (202) 661-8068. The National Heritage Responders is a team of trained conservators and collections care professionals administered by the Foundation for Advancement in Conservation. Responders are available 24/7 to provide advice and guidance after a disaster.
Additionally, organizations can call the Texas Collections Emergency Resource Alliance (TX-CERA), a private non-profit organization in Texas, whose mission is to serve as an educational resource for disaster preparedness, response, and recovery for Texas cultural institutions. Their hotline number is (669) 237-2243.
Members of the Public
If members of your community or local artists have questions about saving family heirlooms and personal collections, they can email the National Heritage Responders at NHRpublichelpline@culturalheritage.org.
FEMA also provides fact sheets on saving your family treasures, available in multiple languages.
