Church disaster relief grants

FEMA's BRIC program funds hazard mitigation projects that protect buildings and communities from floods, storms, earthquakes, and other natural hazards. Churches cannot apply directly: eligible applicants are states and tribes, with local governments as subapplicants. A church benefits by having its city or county include the property in its application, so the path in is your local emergency management or hazard mitigation office. The program was reinstated by federal court order in March 2026 after a 2025 termination attempt, and a combined FY2024-25 round worth $1 billion is currently open. For security-focused funding churches can apply for directly, see FEMA's Nonprofit Security Grant Program through your state administering agency.

The United Methodist Church's Advance program channels direct charitable giving to approved projects and organizations working in mission. Local churches can receive Advance Specials designations for projects focused on disaster relief, community development, and health and wholeness ministries. Approved projects receive promotional support and can receive directed gifts from churches worldwide.

FEMA's Hazard Mitigation Grant Program provides funding to state, tribal, and local governments to implement long-term hazard mitigation measures after a presidential disaster declaration. Houses of worship and nonprofit organizations are eligible as sub-applicants through their state or local government sponsor. Eligible projects include safe room construction, flood mitigation, seismic retrofits, and wildfire mitigation.