Disaster Needs Assessment

Since 2005, Equal Justice Works has mobilized over 80 passionate public service Fellows to provide critical legal assistance to individuals affected by disaster, including tornadoes in Joplin, Missouri, and Norman, Oklahoma; Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, and Ike; Superstorm Sandy in New York; the BP oil
spill in the Gulf; flooding in Louisiana; Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria; Tropical Storm Imelda; and most recently COVID-19 and Hurricanes Hanna and Laura. 
 
Our track record proves that Equal Justice Works is experienced in mobilizing legal talent and providing funds for 24 month Fellowships, substantive training and expertise to help build the capacity of local legal service providers to respond effectively to the needs of disaster-affected communities. This year, Equal Justice Works established the Disaster Resilience Program as a standing program mobilizing Fellows to continually address the critical legal needs that low-income communities face before, during, and after a disaster including COVID-19.  

Equal Justice Works is currently conducting a needs assessment survey to understand the legal needs of low-income communities affected by disaster. The objective is to collect information from legal service providers across the country on the current state of affairs and the capacity of legal aid organizations, in order to understand whether and how Equal Justice Works may help support the response of local service providers through the Disaster Resilience Program. Once we have the survey results, we will determine what program strategy will be most effective and responsive.

Please take a few minutes to complete the needs assessment survey on behalf of your organization. You may also forward this survey to those you feel may also be able to assist appropriately. The survey will close on October 13, 2020. Note: Only one survey per organization is necessary.