I am in a similar situation as you and the reason I prepare is to take some of the burden off of the organization that would be helping my family and I. I also do it so that when the excrement hits the air conditioning my children will be able to rely on me to help them get through this situation a little easier. When the ball drops, if it ever does I want to get through it with the kids going through as little trauma as possible. Worse case scenario for me would be nothing ever happens and I spent money to protect my family. Money well spent as far as I am concerned.
... though I do carry some gear in a shoulder bag I carry to work (large trash bag, flashlight, lighter, compass, knife, basic first aid supplies, bandanna, etc...). That's how I started out and now I have so much shizzle I have a spare room for it.