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Executive Division --> Office for Access and Functional Needs


Purpose of OAFN

In January 2008, OES Director Henry Renteria created the Office for Access and Functional Needs (OAFN). The purpose of OAFN is to identify the needs of people with disabilities before, during and after a disaster and to integrate disability needs and resources into all aspects of emergency management systems.

According to the U.S. Census of 2000, there are approximately six million Californians over the age of five years who identify as having a disability. OAFN – under the leadership of Richard Devylder as Special Advisor to the Director – was created to strengthen the method and planning of emergency management for people with disabilities.

The new model includes the following:
  • Inclusion of people with disabilities and service organizations
  • Inclusion of accessible transportation providers
  • Integration of needs and resources in emergency preparedness plans
  • Prepared to address functional needs
  • Expert assessments
  • Meet essential needs
  • Wheelchair accessible vehicles incorporated in evacuation plans
  • Durable medical equipment, consumable medical supplies and standard accessible cots in cache
  • Sheltering people with disabilities and activity limitations in General Population shelter
  • Language will reference functional needs rather than “special needs” and people with disabilities and activity limitations rather than “vulnerable populations”
  • Facilities and temporary structures required and/or retrofitted to become accessible

The projected outcomes will include:
  • Improved ability for people with disabilities to maintain independence, health and safety, during disasters
  • People with disabilities and activity limitations will be recognized as a significant part of the population and will be active participants in planning and responding
  • Communication, facilities, materials and services will be accessible to comply with civil rights laws

Change will occur with a commitment by those responsible for emergency management planning and disability service organizations and departments to integrate their cultures and develop a collaborative working relationship on the issues. Integration will ultimately change emergency management in California.

We hope the information provided is useful and increases preparedness for supporting the needs of people with disabilities, in disasters and recovery. Please provide us with any feedback and share resources that others can benefit from.