Natural disasters are often called “great equalizers” — storms, wildfires, and floods that seemingly spare no one, regardless of wealth, race, or ZIP code. But this familiar saying conceals a harsh truth: Disasters don’t level the playing field. They expose the deep cracks already present. For our most vulnerable neighbors, the impact isn’t merely greater — it lasts longer and it can be catastrophic.
Dale Bannon
National Community Relations and Development Secretary, The Salvation Army
Who suffers most?
When disaster strikes, headlines typically spotlight wind speeds, flood depths, and damage estimates. But behind these figures lies a more troubling reality. Disasters disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, including people experiencing homelessness, low-income families, older adults, and individuals with chronic illnesses or disabilities. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, counties with the highest social vulnerability experienced 57% of excess hurricane-related deaths, while the least vulnerable counties accounted for only 6%.
Barriers before the storm
For these groups, obstacles begin well before a storm makes landfall or a wildfire spreads. Evacuation notices assume people have reliable transportation, safe destinations, funds for supplies, and timely information. But evacuation orders can become impossible for those without a vehicle, stable housing, or financial resources.
On a single night in 2024, approximately 771,480 people in the United States experienced homelessness, the highest count since tracking began. Additionally, 28% of Americans aged 65 and older live alone, often lacking the vital support needed for evacuation or recovery efforts. Nearly 37 million Americans live in poverty, limiting their ability to prepare, flee, or rebuild.
Realities on the ground
These vulnerabilities translate into harsh realities during actual disasters. Before Hurricane Katrina, over a quarter of New Orleans residents lived in poverty, and flooding devastated low-income neighborhoods, such as the Lower Ninth Ward. Without insurance or stable housing, many faced insurmountable barriers to recovery.
The critical role of community-based organizations
Community-based organizations play a crucial role in addressing these disparities. Nonprofits, faith-based groups, and local service providers often step into gaps left by larger response systems. Embedded in the communities they serve, they understand local needs and respond quickly with tailored support.
The Salvation Army, for example, operates in nearly every ZIP code nationwide and is often among the first to respond. Its support spans all affected groups, from disaster survivors and unhoused individuals to first responders and healthcare workers. Through mobile feeding units, emergency shelters, hygiene kits, and emotional and spiritual care, it serves anyone impacted by disaster, regardless of background or circumstance. By partnering with local government and nonprofits, they ensure elderly residents, shelter guests, and those with mobility or medical issues receive critical support.
A call to action
As disasters become more frequent, we must abandon the myth of disasters as equalizers. Instead, we must invest in preparedness programs within vulnerable communities, support local organizations, and build systems designed to ensure no one is left behind.
Disasters aren’t great equalizers, they’re great revealers. What they reveal must motivate us to respond with greater empathy and compassion for all.
