In September 2005, the Society of Southwest Archivists and the Society of American Archivists created the SSA-SAA Emergency Disaster Assistance Grant Fund—a fund established to address the stabilization and recovery needs of archival repositories affected by Hurricane Katrina. In October 2005, the Fund was expanded to include repositories affected by Hurricane Rita. Both SAA and SSA provided $5,000 in “seed” money to establish the Fund.
Working together, SSA and SAA expanded the original scope of the Fund to provide grants that support the recovery of archival collections from major disasters, regardless of region or repository type.
Any repository that holds archival records or special collections is eligible to apply for a grant. The repository need not be a member of SSA or SAA. Grant monies may be used for the direct recovery of damaged or at-risk archival materials; such services as freeze drying, storage, transportation of materials, and rental facilities; supplies, including acid-free boxes and folders, storage cartons, cleaning materials, plastic milk crates, and protective gear; and to defray the costs for volunteers or other laborers who assist with the recovery.
If you are able to assist our colleagues by donating to the fund, please click here.
If you are in need of assistance, see the SAA website for information about applying for grant funds.
 
Access the SAA Hurricane Relief Resources for more practical information