Disaster Legal Aid

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Survivors of natural disasters, such as the 2025 severe storms and 2022 flood, who need legal help can call the Disaster Legal Services Intake Hotline at 1-844-478-0099. AppalReD Legal Aid’s Disaster Legal Services team tackles legal issues to help flood survivors remain housed, economically stable, and food secure so they can recover and rebuild. Recovery is a multi-year process, and we are a resource for the long-term needs of the community. 

Find more information about FEMA and other relevant topics at AppalReD Legal Aid's Disaster Information Hub.

AppalReD Legal Aid Mobilizes Pro Bono Volunteers and Expands Disaster Legal Services to Assist Flood Survivors in Eastern Kentucky
Disaster Legal Services Hotline Open—Pro Bono Attorneys Urgently Needed
The Weather Outside is Frightful: Winter Weather Safety Tips
Winter weather is tough for everyone, but it can be especially hard for families with low incomes. 
FLOOD SURVIVORS: Did you know you can still make a FEMA appeal?
  HAZARD, Ky. (WYMT) - The flood last July left thousands of people without a home or with one that needed severe repairs, and because of the level of disaster, FEMA applications were available for flood survivors. Which meant Eastern Kentuckians were eligible to receive up to $37,900 in federal funding to help.
Pike Co. and Floyd Co. Long-Term Flood Recovery Meetings
As the year anniversary of the devastating flooding of July 2022 nears, there are two more opportunities to connect with resources and lend your voice to the community action planning process. A meeting with be held on July 26 from 4:00-6:00 p.m. in Langley, KY. The next day a meeting with be hosted in Virgie from 5:30-7:30 pm. Please contact shambrick@sbpusa.org with any questions. The hotline for flood survivors to connect with legal assistance remains live. Anyone with legal needs can call 1-844-478-0099. 
Common Natural Disaster Scams
​​​Following natural disasters, scammers often attempt to take advantage of victims. The Kentucky Attorney General's website has more information detailing some of the most common natural disaster scams as well as tips to avoid becoming a victim of natural disaster fraud. Common scams following a natural disaster include price gouging, construction and repair scams, identity theft, impersonation of relief agencies or FEMA, and loan scams.
FEMA Appeal: Contractor Estimate Guide
Only estimate storm-related damages. Do NOT estimate deferred maintenance. Only estimate repairs to bring home to safe, sanitary, and livable condition. Estimate should NOT include repairs that bring the home to its pre-storm condition. Quote standard replacement items such as floor covering, walls/ceilings, fixtures, and appliances. List all line items with measurements, materials, labor, and work type (Ex. “Demo only”, “R&R”).
FEMA Appeal: Vehicle Information
The following is an overview of factors and documentation taken into consideration for vehicle claims. File a claim with your insurance company.  Comprehensive policies usually pay for storm-related damage to a car. Federal disaster assistance may help fill the gaps for those whose coverage does not pay for any or all storm-related damage costs.
Resident Meetings for Long-Term Flood Recovery
Give Your Input and Get Help at Flood Recovery Meetings
HAZARD, Ky. (WYMT) - The Kentucky River Area Development District is hosting meetings starting Thursday regarding flood recovery in Breathitt, Knott, Letcher and Perry Counties. KRADD Executive Director Michelle Allen said they want to hear from people directly impacted by the flood. “We want to hear all of the needs of the community because there may be things out there that organizations like us or even local governments do not realize people still need,” she said.
Legal Help for Kentucky Flood Survivors Hotline
The hotline for legal help for Kentucky flood survivors is still active with no plans to shut down. You may call 1-844-478-0099.  We can help with: FEMA Appeals Unemployment Insurance SNAP Benefits Medicaid/Medicare Replacement IDS and Birth Certificates Replacement EBT/Direct Express/WIC Cards Insurance Denials Scams and Fraud Housing (Homeowners and Renters) Connecting to other Community Resources