WTC Records Folder 0129 Disaster Miscellaneous label, 2001

NYC 9/11 Public Portal Document

SEP-19-2001 12:2? 718 23? 873? P.04i06

advice and solutions, make all policies and forms comprehensible. and try to show clients how they can cope.

Housing. One of the most immediate disaster-related issues is maintaining housing. Loss of income will jeopardize the ability to make mortgage or rent payments, and without appropriate intervention these families could become homeless. The Legal Aid Society can provide advice and assistance on housing issues, and initiate appropriate interventions as necessary to help families stay in their homes.

Family. The death of a parent or other caregiver gives rise to child custody, adoption, and guardianship matters, and to needed financial assistance for those now giving care, all of which should get urgent attention. The Legal Aid Society's Civil and Juvenile Rights practices are prepared to address this need, including meeting with the Surrogate and Administrative Judge of the Family Court to consider practices and procedures appropriate to these unique circumstances.

Benefits. Some of the benefits likely to be sought are:

Death Benefits. Families of those who died in the crisis may have recourse to Social Security, insurance, and other benefits, but little sophistication to access these resources,

Unemployment Benefits. Service workers for the World Trade Center, the businesses associated with it, and for businesses in the surrounding area will be without employment. Many of them have no reasonable expectation of re- employment by those former employers.

Income Continuation Benefits. Individuals who are displaced from the workforce and who were not otherwise eligible for unemployment benefits will find themselves in need of income continuation benefits, emergency welfare, food stamps, and other forms of assistance.

Health Benefits. Individuals who were injured in the crisis , as well as the families of deceased individuals are likely to need information about health benefits coverage, either through the family member's employer, or through Medicaid or other government programs. The Legal Aid Society knows the intricacies of Benefits Law and has working relationships with nearly every service agency. We explain procedures to clients, expedite service, and help complete various forms. The Legal Aid Society has an active healthcare and benefits practice throughout the City. Staff work daily with the Department of Labor, Human Resources Administration, health insurance providers, and others.

NYC-WTC 000137460