In Fall of 2024, the Bluegrass Area Extension Agent for Family and Consumer Sciences hosted In the Face of Disaster events, in 10 counties. The event focused on food and water safety, family finance and resource management, caring for aging and at-risk populations during a disaster, and navigating trauma after a disaster strikes.

As a follow up event to In the Face of Disaster, the Powell County Extension Agent for Family and Consumer Sciences worked with the Health Department to host an emergency preparedness community fair the following Spring. The focus of the event was to educate the public on how to prepare yourself and your family for emergencies. Some of the topics included: protecting your family and home; food and water safety; family finance and resource management; trauma; aging and special needs.

Several community partners were engaged in this event including the Powell County CSEPP (Chemical Stockpile Emergency Preparedness Program) Coordinator, the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, UK Healthcare Health Education Coordinator, Kentucky River Foothills, and Kentucky State University Community Resource Development - Disaster Education.

Participants were able to make connections with the local agencies that they may need to contact after an instance of disaster. They also received free items to add to their own emergency kits such as weather radios, flashlights, solar chargers, roadside emergency kits, stay on light bulbs, and first aid supplies.

While attending the event, participants had the opportunity to listen to a quick presentation on flood preparedness by Kentucky State University Disaster Educator.

Over 120 community members attended the event.