Disaster Advocacy

Disaster Advocacy

Disaster Advocacy

Established in the aftermath of Hurricanes Irma and Maria to manage the increase in disaster-related legal matters, disaster legal assistance workshops, community outreach, and training materials for probono attorneys. The Disaster Advocacy Program has assisted with 266 disaster- related cases across the Territory.

The LSVI Disaster Advocacy Program has worked closely with FEMA to translate our written materials into Spanish and French Creole. It is our goal to ensure that our recovery efforts reflect the diversity of our community. Legal Services is an active member of the St. Thomas Recovery Team, the St. John “Angels” Long Term Recovery Team, and the St. Croix Long Term Recovery Group.

The LSVI Disaster Advocacy Program provides for the critical needs of low-income disaster survivors. LSVI is the only organization in the Virgin Islands that provides free legal assistance to low-income individuals for disaster legal needs, including, but not limited to:

  • Landlord/tenant
  • Proof of home ownership
  • Real property (deeds, probate, foreclosure)
  • Wills
  • Emergency child custody
  • Power of attorney (adult and child)
  • Guardianship (minor or adult)
  • Loss of documents (birth certificates, SSA card, driver’s license, etc.)
  • Domestic violence
  • Unemployment insurance
  • SNAP (food stamp denial of benefits)
  • Check fraud/unauthorized access to bank accounts
  • Insurance claims disputes
  • Contractor fraud disputes
  • FEMA appeals

Pro bono attorneys are an integral part of our Disaster Advocacy Program. If you would to like to help survivors in the U.S. Virgin Islands please click the button below:

This success is only possible with your support.