NFL partners with FEMA to turn stadiums into shelters during emergencies

The NFL has entered into a groundbreaking partnership with FEMA to repurpose stadiums as emergency shelters during times of crisis. As part of this initiative, MetLife Stadium in New Jersey is set to be one of the first designated as a "Mission Ready Venue. " The collaboration aims to utilize the central and accessible locations of sports venues to support community responses to extreme weather events. FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell noted that large music, sports, and entertainment venues can serve as safe havens during emergencies like hurricanes or pandemics. In addition to providing shelter, these stadiums can also act as staging areas, commodity distribution sites, and mass vaccination or testing centers.

The move reflects a growing recognition of the vital role such venues can play in disaster response and recovery. This partnership not only seeks to enhance immediate community safety but also aims to build resilience against future crises. Overall, the initiative represents a proactive approach to emergency management in collaboration with the sports industry.