Free Legal Aid Available for Hurricane Helene Survivors in South Carolina

Free Legal Assistance for Hurricane Helene Survivors in South Carolina

COLUMBIA, S.C. – If you’ve been impacted by the recent Hurricane Helene and find yourself overwhelmed by the aftermath, there’s some good news! Free legal aid is now available for disaster survivors across several counties in South Carolina. Yes, you heard that right! If you’re in counties like Abbeville, Aiken, Allendale, Anderson, Bamberg, Barnwell, Beaufort, and many others up to York, you may qualify for the help you desperately need.

Who Can Help?

The legal assistance comes from a partnership that includes the American Bar Association Young Lawyers Division, FEMA, and various local organizations, which all aim to provide vital support to those who are struggling. The Disaster Legal Services program has been set up specifically for low-income individuals and families who may not have the means to hire an attorney on their own.

What Kind of Help is Available?

So, what kind of support can you expect? Well, the Legal Aid program can assist with a range of issues that have arisen due to the disaster. This could be anything from dealing with insurance claims to helping you navigate benefits applications. They can even offer advice about homeowner’s rights and mortgage issues if your home was damaged. The goal is to make sure you don’t have to face these challenges alone.

How to Reach Them

If you’re feeling like you could use a hand, you can reach out by calling (803) 799-6653 ext. 120 or (803) 576-3815. The hotline operates from 8:30 a.m. to noon and 1:00 to 4:30 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. There’s also an option to leave a message if you call outside of business hours, so you won’t miss out on receiving help.

Eligibility and Limitations

It’s important to note that while they are there to help, not every case can be taken on by the hotline partners. For instance, they cannot assist with cases that involve settlements that would require legal fees or awards. However, they can refer those cases to other legal resources that might be able to help.

Who Is Eligible?

This legal aid is geared towards those who have been directly impacted by Hurricane Helene. If you live in the counties listed—like Fairfield, Greenville, Hampton, Jasper, and more—chances are you qualify! And even residents from the Catawba Indian Nation can seek assistance through this program.

Why It Matters

Hurricanes can be devastating, leaving emotional and financial scars. The disruption that follows can add a layer of stress that many simply can’t handle alone. That’s why having access to legal assistance can make a world of difference. It’s all about ensuring that individuals and families can get back on their feet and reclaim some sense of normalcy after going through such a harrowing experience.

Final Thoughts

If you or someone you know has been affected by Hurricane Helene, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Remember, you’re not alone, and there are resources available to help you navigate this challenging time. Take that first step and call the hotline mentioned above, and let’s get you the legal support that can facilitate recovery and peace of mind.