Look Who it Was Random video

How to change the disaster relief paradigm | Monica Byrne | TEDxGowanus

1,905 views · Published 7 April 2014 · 11:24 · Indexed 20 September 2026

Channel: TEDx Talks · 2014 · Nonprofits & Activism

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As a resident and small business owner in the Brooklyn neighborhood Red Hook, Monica was an eye-witness to the devastation of Superstorm Sandy, watching the waters rise and engulf her streets.  In the aftermath of the storm, Monica co-founded ReStore Red Hook, to rebuild and reopen the small businesses that serve the area.  But during her advocacy, she became increasingly frustrated with how disaster relief was distributed to those in need.  Despite the outpouring of support, very little of what was actually needed ended up in the hands of the needy.

In this funny, touching, and poignant talk, Monica explains how the current system of disaster aid works and why it's so important that we change it.  What you hear could forever change the way you think about aid during a crisis.

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