Washington, D.C. (KINY) – This week, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell commemorates FEMA’s 45th year of helping people before, during and after disasters. As FEMA observes this anniversary, they honor the dedication of their workforce and continued commitment to shaping an agency ready to meet the country’s needs in an ever-evolving disaster landscape.
“For 45 years, FEMA employees have served on the front lines to help people in their greatest time of need,” said Administrator Criswell. “Our employees are the heartbeat of our agency. Together, we’re building a more resilient nation by mitigating disasters and improving how we help people on their worst day. As our agency continues to grow and adapt to the needs of our country, I also challenge my team to keep leaning forward, improving our existing programs, harnessing new technology, and positioning ourselves for the increasing frequency and severity of disasters. I am proud of our agency’s service to our nation, for our role is more important now than ever before.”
FEMA was established by President Jimmy Carter through an executive order signed on April 1, 1979. He charged the agency with the dual mission of civil defense and disaster response and recovery.