National Disaster Recovery Fund for Archives: How to Apply & Get Support

In the wake of natural disasters, preserving historical and cultural archives becomes a critical task. Institutions often face overwhelming challenges when trying to restore damaged records. That’s where the National Disaster Recovery Fund for Archives (NDRFA) steps in—offering vital financial support to safeguard our heritage. While the fund assists archival institutions, individuals impacted by disasters can also benefit from government programs like srd sassa, which provides social relief in times of crisis. Combining institutional aid with personal support systems strengthens community resilience during recovery efforts.

What Is the National Disaster Recovery Fund for Archives?

The National Disaster Recovery Fund for Archives was established in 2005 following the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina. Originally initiated through a partnership between the Society of Southwest Archivists (SSA) and the Society of American Archivists (SAA), the fund began with seed money of $10,000—$5,000 contributed by each organization. Its mission quickly expanded from local response to supporting archival institutions affected by disasters anywhere, regardless of geographic location.

This fund supports recovery, stabilization, and preservation of archival records impacted by events like hurricanes, floods, fires, and other large-scale emergencies.

Why the NDRFA Is Essential

When disasters strike, archival collections—often irreplaceable—are at high risk. Losing them can mean losing decades or centuries of cultural, academic, or governmental history. The NDRFA helps institutions:

• Stabilize and protect at-risk materials

• Recover essential historical and research records

• Secure expert services like freeze-drying, decontamination, and conservation

• Avoid permanent loss of national and community heritage

Who Can Apply?

Any repository or institution that holds archival records or special collections is eligible to apply—membership in SSA or SAA is not required.

Eligible Organizations Include:

• Libraries

• Museums

• Historical societies

• Academic institutions

• Government record offices

• Private archives

Eligible Expenses:

• Freeze drying and preservation services

• Emergency storage and transportation

• Archival supplies (acid-free folders, boxes, gloves, masks)

• Temporary facilities for recovery

• Volunteer and labor assistance costs

How Much Funding Can You Get?

The fund offers grants of up to $5,000, depending on the needs of the applicant and the availability of funds. In exceptional circumstances, additional funding may be approved. Importantly, payments can be made directly to service providers if the recipient submits an itemized invoice.

All recipients are expected to submit a financial report detailing how the grant was used within six months of disbursement.

How to Apply for the NDRFA

To request funding, follow these steps:

1. Download the NDRFA Application Form from the official SAA website.

2. Complete the form with all required information.

3. Submit your application via email to: foundation@archivists.org

   • Alternatively, you can send a formal letter that includes the same information required in the application.

   • Include contact details for both the organization head and the main contact person (if they are different).

Mailing Address:

Society of American Archivists Foundation
Attn: National Disaster Recovery Fund for Archives
17 North State Street, Suite 1425
Chicago, IL 60602
Phone: 866-722-7858
Fax: 312-606-0728

How Are Applicants Selected?

A review committee composed of SSA and SAA representatives evaluates each application. Proposals are scored based on:

• Severity of damage

• Cultural or historical significance of the collection

• Cost-effectiveness of proposed recovery efforts

• Readiness and capacity of the institution to manage recovery

Successful applicants will be notified directly after the review.

Additional Support: Combine Resources for Greater Recovery

While the NDRFA is designed for institutions, individuals affected by disasters often rely on additional forms of aid. The srd sassa program, administered by the South African Social Security Agency, is a well-known example of emergency relief for individuals. Even though it is specific to South Africa, it highlights the importance of multi-level support systems for disaster recovery.

Institutions can encourage affected staff, volunteers, and local communities to seek personal financial aid where available, while simultaneously applying for institutional recovery grants like NDRFA.

Final Thoughts

The National Disaster Recovery Fund for Archives is more than just financial assistance—it’s a commitment to preserving collective memory and cultural identity. By acting quickly and applying for the grant, institutions can mitigate loss and begin the path toward full archival recovery.

Combining efforts from programs like NDRFA and tools like srd sassa, we can build a more resilient, better-prepared society—one that values both people and the priceless records that tell their stories.