Socio-Demographic Determinants of Access to Housing Assistance Programs Post-Winter Storm Uri and Major Flooding: A Case Study of Lake Charles, Louisiana

Abstract

This study explores the determinants of access to housing assistance and funding allocations from two key disaster recovery programs—Individual Housing Program Funding (IHPF) and Housing Assistance Program Funding (HAPF)—for residents of Lake Charles, Louisiana, following flood-related disasters. The study followed a quantitative exploratory research. With the help of logistic and multiple regression models, the analysis examines the influence of variables such as homeowner insurance, flood insurance, primary residence status, low-to-moderate-income status, and the extent of flood damage on access to housing assistance and the amount of funding received. The findings indicate that homeowner and flood insurance coverage, as well as the degree of flood damage, are significant predictors of access to housing assistance and the amount of funding allocated, with insured residents and those in flood-impacted areas receiving higher amounts. Conversely, primary residence status and low-to-moderate-income status were found to have minimal impact on funding allocation. The study suggests that the current disaster recovery funding models may inadequately address the needs of lower-income and uninsured households. Based on these findings, the study recommends policy adjustments, including enhancing support for low-income residents, providing assistance to uninsured households, implementing a tiered funding structure, and strengthening flood resilience efforts in vulnerable areas. These recommendations aim to improve the equity and effectiveness of disaster recovery funding, ensuring more comprehensive support for affected communities.

Keywords: Lake Charles, LA, Natural Disaster, Disaster Recovery, Winter Storm, Flooding, FEMA, Socio-demographic, Socially Vulnerable Population, Disparities, Assistance, and Programs

DOI: 10.7176/IAGS/101-07

Publication date:December 31^st 2024