Maryland Partners With Target for Disaster Relief

Target will provide supplies, personnel

Maryland’s Emergency Management Agency is partnering with one of the nation’s most popular big box stores to prepare for future disaster response and recovery.

The agency announced Thursday it will work with Target Corp. on preparation for future relief efforts.

Target will work with the state to identify what it needs and determine how to respond with supplies, personnel and support. The company has extensive experience in the field.

“During catastrophic events our citizens often believe they have a very limited role in helping their community recover,” MEMA Executive Director Richard Muth said. “The reality is that recovery is and must be a unified effort between government, business and our communities.”

Earlier this year, MEMA and Target agreed to enter into a memorandum of understanding regarding disaster response and recovery. They signed that memorandum Friday.

On Target’s corporate website, it lists partnerships with FEMA, the Department of Homeland Security, Big City Emergency Managers, the Department of Justice and the National Association of Town Watch.

The agreement with MEMA says items donated in the past have included water, food, batteries, clothing and other supplies. Target volunteers will also be available to help emergency responders.

“People impacted by disasters want to have a role in their recovery efforts,” Muth said. “Empowerment gives people confidence, and in partnership with Target, gives them a sense they are contributing toward the resiliency and rebuilding of their community. Restoring our communities to normal is an effort in which we all must play a part.”

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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