Disasters and emergencies happen often with little or no warning – whether it is a fire in your house or a massive hurricane, the unexpected can take a toll on your financial planning. Being financially prepared helps disaster survivors to bounce back much more quickly from a disaster, yet research by the Federal Reserve shows that about 40 percent of Americans don’t have money to cover basic needs for more than three months.

Recognizing these gaps, FEMA is encouraging the entire nation to be involved in creating a culture of preparedness, which includes financial preparedness. To help us move toward that vision, we are pleased to partner with the Association for Financial Counseling & Planning Education® (AFCPE®) on direct efforts to improve financial preparedness for individuals and families.

During America Saves Week, please join the Association for Financial Counseling & Planning Education® (AFCPE®) and FEMA’s Individual and Community Preparedness Division on Wednesday, February 27th from 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM EST to learn about the importance of financial preparedness for emergencies and the best ways to prepare.  

This webinar will feature Rebecca Wiggins and Sara Croymans. Rebecca Wiggins is the Executive Director of AFCPE®. Sara Croymans is an AFC® (Accredited Financial Counselor®) and Extension Educator with the University of Minnesota Extension who specializes in disaster financial preparedness. AFC® professionals utilize their knowledge, skills, and experience to help individuals and families, regardless of income level and background, to build a strong financial foundation, a foundation that is critical to helping more people be prepared to effectively respond to financial emergencies and get back on their feet faster following a disaster. 

Title: Resilience Starts with Financial Preparedness: Save For the Unexpected 

Date: Wednesday, February 27

Time:  1:00 PM – 2:00 PM EST

This webinar will feature the following presenters:

•	Rebecca Wiggins, Executive Director, Association for Financial Counseling & Planning Education® (AFCPE®)
•	Sara Croymans, AFC® Professional, Association for Financial Counseling & Planning Education® (AFCPE®) 
•	Nisah Abdul-Sabur, Financial Preparedness Lead, Individual and Community Preparedness Division, FEMA