Determining partner agency participation, including the lead agency, and the services each agency will provide; Developing a preliminary operational plan, including: Outlining the appropriate scale and scope of MARC operations; Identifying available resources and resource for MARC; Identifying an appropriate MARC site; having a list of pre-identified potential facilities will expedite this ( see below); Determining dates and times the MARC will operate and ability of participating agencies to support; Identifying MARC operational guidelines and communications plan; Creating a MARC opening announcement, to be released with appropriate advance notice. (See for a sample MARC opening checklist). MARC Site Selection Selecting an appropriate site for the MARC involves several considerations to ensure that the location and facility can adequately meet the needs of both clients and participating agencies. The selection process begins by identifying potential facilities in close proximity to the impacted area but located in safe areas. Ensure that driving time for those needing assistance is as short as possible. When planning for a MARC site, consider any potential impacts on service to the community if located near or co-located with a state or federal DRC. A suitable site will address the considerations below. Considerations Is the site visible and open to the public? Are the site and facility accessible? (see for more information regarding the Americans with Disabilities Act) Does the site have enough flexible space for partner agencies to effectively provide services to clients? Enough office space for MARC administrative functions? Can the site be used without extensive modifications? Does this site have adequate utility service at present (i.e. service not interrupted by the disaster)? Is there water (including hot water), sewer, gas and power? Is there phone and internet connectivity? Is heating or air conditioning? Is the plumbing system adequate for the size of the MARC operation? Is there a kitchen? Is refrigeration and freezer space available? Are dumpsters available or is there space to drop a dumpster on site? When considering if bulk distribution will take at the MARC: Is sufficient space available for bulk supplies? (consult partner agencies for their particular needs) Will a forklift and/or pallet jack be available? Is there a loading dock? Is a paved area available at the site? (preferable to gravel or dirt for heavy equipment use) Is adequate security available to protect people, property and equipment?
MARC AGENCY LOG [day] [date] Agency Services Provided Hours at MARC Contact for Day Start: End: Name: Phone: Start: End: Name: Phone: Start: End: Name: Phone: Start: End: Name: Phone: Start: End: Name: Phone: Start: End: Name: Start: End: Name: Phone: End: Name: Phone: End: Name: Phone: End: Name: Phone: Start: End: Name: Phone: Appendix I: Americans with Disabilities Act The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires reasonable modifications be made to practices and procedures to ensure accessibility of public services to individuals with disabilities, which include
Appendix L: Typical MARC Supplies Basic Set Up Tables Chairs Partitions Trash receptacles Appropriate signage (brand neutral) Business Needs Phones Fax Machine Copier Copy paper General office supplies File storage Other Maps Referral lists Agency business cards Individual bulk distribution items Snacks and Toilet paper, paper towels, and tissue Heavy garbage bags (contractor bags) Anti-bacterial soap Kitchen supplies (if applicable) Children’s Area Books, crayons, coloring books Children’s DVDs and a television Small tables, chairs, games, etc. Group activities Appendix M: Sample MARC Layout Individual MARC layouts will be determined facility structure, available space, partner agency and client needs. Below is an example of a MARC layout. When selecting a location, keep in mind accessible bathrooms, parking and transportation and any special facility needs specific to the MARC. MARCs may include space for the following: Assigned areas for each partner agency (generally in a large open area) Reception/registration area Client waiting area General information area Damage verification area Client feedback table Kitchen area Snack table (consider nut-free zone) Eating area (for clients and preferably separated) Family reunification resource area Staff respite area Casework/client interview area (arranged to maintain client privacy Health, mental health, emotional and spiritual care areas (ideally quiet, private space) Children’s play/childcare services area Client resource area with phones, computers, internet access and charging stations where possible Administrative offices and secure storage Bulk distribution area EMA or Small Business Administration resources nearby or co-located Spaces should be configured to be accessible to all clients.