Supporting 9/11 Survivors in the Chinese Community

In addition to the 100,000 first responders who were in Lower Manhattan on and after 9/11, there were another 400,000 survivors – workers, residents, and students and teachers – in the 9/11 exposure zone.

As a result of their exposure to Ground Zero toxins, all of them have a dramatically higher risk for 69 different types of cancer, including skin, breast, and prostate cancers, as well as dozens of respiratory illnesses.

We are proud of our contributions to the efforts to have Congress fully fund and permanently extend both the WTCHP and the VCF. But it is frustrating that while over 85% of responders are in the WTCHP, less than 10% of survivors are currently enrolled. Most civilians simply don’t realize that even though they were exposed to the same toxins, and are being diagnosed with the same illnesses, they are eligible for the same benefits as first responders. Or, they fear that they may be taking away benefits from first responders. We assure you that you won’t be.

Survivors from New York City’s vibrant Chinese community have historically been underrepresented in the WTC Health Program.

To expand access to medical treatments and compensation awards, Barasch & McGarry launched an outreach program to support 9/11 survivors in the Chinese community.

At events such as the Dragon Boat Festival in Queens and the Mid-Autumn Festival on the Lower East Side, we shared information about the free health care and compensation available for 9/11 community members.

In addition, Barasch & McGarry partnered with the Chinese-American Planning Council to hold free informational events for seniors at the Chinese Community Center.

Our team includes several community advocates who are native speakers of Mandarin and Cantonese, helping 9/11 responders and survivors enroll in the health program and file compensation claims in their preferred language.