## Overview The **Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)** is a cornerstone of U.S. disaster response and preparedness, operating under the Department of Homeland Security. Its primary mission is to coordinate the federal government’s response to disasters that overwhelm local and state resources, ensuring rapid recovery and effective mitigation of future risks[1][3]. FEMA’s scope spans both natural disasters—such as hurricanes, floods, and wildfires—and man-made incidents, including acts of terrorism[3]. ## History FEMA was established in 1979 by President Jimmy Carter through a presidential reorganization plan, consolidating various federal disaster-response activities into a single agency[1]. This move was designed to streamline the nation’s approach to emergency management and civil defense. Over time, FEMA’s responsibilities expanded, and it became part of the Department of Homeland Security in 2003, reflecting a post-9/11 focus on national security and resilience[1]. ## What FEMA Does FEMA’s operations are comprehensive, covering every phase of disaster management: **preparedness, prevention, mitigation, response, and recovery**[3][4]. Before disasters strike, FEMA engages in public education, community planning, and training to reduce vulnerabilities. When disasters occur, the agency provides immediate assistance—funding, deploying personnel, and supplying critical resources—to individuals, state and local governments, and nonprofits[2]. FEMA also administers programs for rebuilding infrastructure, offering low-interest loans and hazard mitigation grants[1][5]. ## Key Achievements FEMA’s achievements include major responses to catastrophic events like Hurricane Katrina (2005), Superstorm Sandy (2012), and, more recently, Hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024. During the latter, FEMA approved over $4.3 billion in aid and mobilized thousands of federal responders, demonstrating its capacity for large-scale coordination[2]. The agency has also been instrumental in developing national standards for emergency management