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Project Name: Hurricane Cora Simulation for COMM 404

Company Represented: Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development

Period Covered: June 6, 2026 - July 2, 2026

 

With Hurricane Cora fast approaching, we’ve drafted a crisis communication plan for key messaging during this storm. We want to ensure everyone is well-informed before the event so they can plan and prepare accordingly.

 

Key Objectives

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• Managerial function- reach as many people as possible. Build public trust. Make sure messages are sent timely, accurately, and in plain text to be accessible to everyone.

• Reduce vulnerability- increase awareness by providing the public with contacts and resources before the storm hits. Support the most vulnerable populations.

• Coping with Disaster- share information regarding our disaster relief aid. Increase awareness regarding public housing after a natural disaster and how to build community resilience. Keep open lines of communication with partnering stakeholders who can assist. Set up a hotline for people to call in when they need assistance.

 

Assets

Assets- The Virginia DHCD has formed strong alliances with state, federal, local, and nonprofit agencies across the Commonwealth. These relationships will make it possible for us to quickly connect with organizations regarding funding, grants, or available housing.

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Preparedness- Reaching out in advance of the storm to inquire about housing or shelter availability. Be sure facilities are well stocked with emergency supplies.

 

Response- Informing the public of domains and shelters that will be available. Ensuring shelters have the necessary backup power needed to continue relief operations.

 

Recovery- Strategically placing individuals and families in appropriate housing throughout the Commonwealth.

 

Vulnerabilities

In the case of an emergency, a major threat to DHCD would be the lack of immediate housing. We have community partners and access to great resources; however, we don’t own property. We are not in a position to place residents in halfway or transition housing. We are more of a conduit to affordable housing. If a mass number of people had to evacuate Hampton Roads, there is no way we could physically house them.

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Target Audience

The homeless population will be greatly affected when Hurricane Cora hits. Not only are they without shelter, but many are also without vehicles. Most The homeless population will be greatly affected when Hurricane Cora hits. Not only are they without shelter, but many are also without vehicles. Most of the homeless population is made up of blacks and single-mother households. There is also a population of elderly and disabled people we need to reach.​​