Disaster Recovery and Response
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CDFIs as Economic First Responders
Our collaborative approach leverages the strengths of local CDFIs, state organizations, and community partners to maximize impact and ensure culturally appropriate, relationship-based support. We recognize that effective disaster response requires deep community knowledge, established trust networks, and the ability to navigate local cultural nuances that only community-based organizations possess. Rather than imposing external solutions, we work as a bridge between national resources and local expertise, ensuring that relief efforts are designed by and delivered through the organizations that understand their communities best.
Our Proven 3-Phase Framework
Our partnership model has proven essential during our response to major disasters like Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina, where local CDFIs like Appalachian Community Capital provided invaluable insights into community needs and existing business relationships. By combining CRF’s national infrastructure, technology platforms, and capital access capabilities with local partners’ community connections, we create a deployment model that is both efficient at scale and deeply personal in delivery. This approach consistently delivers better outcomes because it honors the reality that disaster recovery is fundamentally about rebuilding communities, not just individual businesses.
Relief
Immediate crisis response within 48-72 hours through unrestricted grants and essential technical assistance when businesses need it most.
Recovery
Bridge financing through zero or low-interest loans while businesses await insurance payouts and federal assistance, keeping operations alive.
Resilience
Long-term growth capital at market rates to help businesses rebuild stronger, more resilient operations that can weather future disasters.
Ready to Build Resilient Communities?
Whether you’re preparing for the next disaster or responding to one now, CRF has the expertise and partnerships to help your community recover stronger.
State & Local Government
Coordinating with state economic development agencies, emergency management offices, and local governments to ensure seamless resource deployment and avoid duplication of efforts.
Philanthropic Partners
Working with foundations, corporate giving programs, and community foundations to rapidly mobilize grant capital and create sustainable funding structures.
Local CDFIs
Empowering community-based lenders with capital, technical assistance, and technology platforms to serve their existing relationships when disasters strike.
Business Support Organizations
Collaborating with chambers of commerce, small business development centers, and industry associations to reach businesses through trusted networks.
White Paper
Disaster Relief Support for the Small Business Ecosystem
Discover how small businesses can recover faster and build long-term resilience after a disaster. Our latest white paper explores the critical role of financial and community-based solutions in helping entrepreneurs weather crises and rebuild stronger. Download now to gain insights, actionable strategies, and examples of how coordinated support can make a lasting difference.
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Founded in 1988, Community Reinvestment Fund, USA (CRF) is a national non-profit organization with a mission to improve lives and strengthen communities through innovative financial solutions. CRF has injected more than $3.6 billion to stimulate job creation and economic development and support community facilities.