What is the primary purpose of Federal disaster assistance according to emergency management guidelines?

The primary purpose of Federal disaster assistance is to supplement state and local resources. After a disaster occurs, local and state governments often face overwhelming challenges and demands that exceed their available resources and capabilities. Federal assistance is intended to provide additional support, which helps fill gaps in resources and services that local and state entities might not be able to address on their own.

This federal support complements existing efforts by state and local authorities, enabling a more effective and coordinated response to disasters. Such assistance may include financial aid, technical support, and the provision of essential services that help communities recover more quickly and effectively after a disaster.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the role of federal assistance. For example, while federal aid can provide significant resources, it does not replace local resources entirely, nor is it designed to cover all costs associated with disasters fully. Additionally, the goal is not to eliminate the role of private organizations but rather to encourage collaboration among various sectors in disaster response and recovery efforts.