Emergency Assistance for Special Needs and Disabilities

The following resources are available for people with disabilities or access and functional needs. You must register prior to an emergency and the following assistance is not guaranteed.

  1. STEAR
  2. Oncor

Disasters and/or emergencies can strike at any time, which may create challenges and specific needs. Residents with access needs and functional needs are encouraged to register with the State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry (STEAR) and update their information every January. The STEAR program is a free registry for Texans of any age who need additional assistance during an emergency event because of access or functional needs, or lack of transportation for evacuation. STEAR assists emergency planners in identifying those who may need assistance during a disaster or emergency. 

Roanoke Emergency Management also encourages residents to create an emergency plan. 

Registering in STEAR does not guarantee you will receive a specific service during an emergency. Last-minute registrations prior to a weather event or emergency may not reach emergency planners.

STEAR is intended for people with access and functional needs that include:

  • Limited mobility
  • Sensory disabilities
  • Additional medical assistance during an emergency event
  • Transportation assistance
  • Personal care assistance

Learn more about STEAR on the TDEM website.