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FUNCTIONAL
ASSESSMENT
SERVICE TEAMFAST
The role of the FAST
is to conduct functional
assessments of individuals with
disabilities and others with
access and functional needs
within shelters. The FAST then
facilitates the process of getting
essential resources needed for
individuals with disabilities
and others with access and
functional needs.
A FAST consists of a group of
trained state, county and CBO
personnel who are ready to
respond and deploy to disaster
areas to work in shelters.
For more information, please visit:
FAST Website:
http://www.cdss.ca.gov/dis/
PG1909.htm
OSP 15 138007
FAST
The purpose of the FAST program is to
provide staff that will be responsible for
conducting functional assessments of
individuals with disabilities and others with
access and functional needs within shelters.
In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, it
became clear that the same potential for a
catastrophic disaster existed in California and
that preparation was required. Preparation and
planning, in particular for sheltering individuals
with disabilities and others with access and
functional needs, needed to be improved.
The California Department of Social Services
(CDSS) has lead responsibility within the State
of California for supporting local government
in mass care during a disaster. In May 2006,
CDSS initiated a planning effort that included
local, state and federal government, as well as
various community based organizations (CBO),
to better support individuals with disabilities
and others with access and functional needs
in shelters. The result of this planning effort
was the FAST program. The FAST will deploy
upon request and remain in shelters until it is
determined that FAST is no longer needed.
FAST Qualifications:
1. Demonstrated two years experience
working with and assessing the needs
of individuals with disabilities and
others with access and functional
needs.
2. Demonstrated knowledge of the
disability and access and functional
needs community. Knowledge of
resources, support services, benefit
programs and disaster aid programs is
necessary.
3. Demonstrated interpersonal skills
needed to communicate effectively
(oral/written) and to interact
effectively and diplomatically with
a variety of staff, volunteers and
members of the community.
4. Completion of FAST training.
5. Ability to travel as required and work
under difficult and stressful situations.
6. Available for quick deployment to
provide immediate and intermediate
early responder assistance.
FAST Responsibilities:
1. Conduct assessments and evaluations of individuals with disabilities and others with
access and functional needs.
2. Identify and track necessary resources so individuals with disabilities and others with
access and functional needs can maintain their health, safety and independence while
residing in shelters.
3. Assess the need for Personal Assistance Services, durable medical equipment,
consumable medical supplies and prescribed medications.
4. Develop and implement service plans for
individuals with disabilities and others with access and functional needs to
meet essential functional needs of those identified.
5. Advise individuals with disabilities and
others with access and functional needs on recovery services available. Coordinate
services and maintain contacts and service notes
6. Facilitate and provide technical assistance
to shelter staff related to resources for individuals with disabilities and others with
access and functional needs.
7. Ongoing coordination and collaboration with shelter management.
.