Hurricanes, wildfires and other climate disasters can destroy people's homes and property.
While survivors were still reeling from the trauma, many subsequently received devastating news: Their applications for FEMA assistance had been denied.
Jeanne Ortiz-Ortiz of the American Bar Association's Disaster Legal Services Program said FEMA applications are often denied because they lack information or lack adequate documentation. Everyone has the right to appeal.
But many people don’t know this or how to get started.
Ortiz-Ortiz: “It's very reasonable to feel overwhelmed and feel like the processes that are in place…may not be helping you right now, but there are resources available.”
For example, a network of legal aid groups called Disaster Justice Advocates offers a free online tool (in English and Spanish) to help people prepare for appeals.
Ortiz-Otiz: “It helps survivors by walking them through the necessary steps to appeal and making sure they meet FEMA's appeal requirements. So it's kind of like a guided interview… It makes it easier for them to advocate for themselves.
Therefore, it can help people get the relief they need to rebuild and recover.
Report source: Sarah Kennedy/ChavoBart Digital Media
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