DISASTER RELIEF IN THE INTEREST OF CHILDREN   In the event of a major disaster or emergency in Broward County, it is the individual 30 municipalities responsibility to provide the initial response and assistance.  However, there are instances when an emergency or a disaster situation is greater than the response capabilities of local governments.  In the event of such an emergency, the Broward County Emergency Management Agency is the County agency that local governments can contact to begin the process of securing supplemental state and federal disaster assistance.  Recovery is the phase which continues until all systems return to normal or as close to normal as possible.   Recovery The Public Assistance Program provides assistance in the restoration infrastructure.  The Individual Assistance Program provides for individuals, families, businesses through loans and grants, temporary housing, tax relief, legal counseling and unemployment and re-employment assistance.   AMERICAN RED CROSS                                                            954-779-2929 521 NE 4th Ave. (Fort Lauderdale) Offers free assistance to individuals and families, including shelter, medicine, food, clothing, and furnishings.  Also provides financial assistance, counseling, budget counseling, and emergency intervention to military personnel and families. ®