Legal Aid Programs
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All Areas of the Law- Informative Website
This award-winning website provides free legal information in all areas of the law. It also provides lawyer profiles and a community to help you make the best legal decisions. The website also provides a link to “do it yourself legal documents’.
www.findlaw.com
Bay Area Legal Services, Inc.
Pro Bono legal services are provided for qualified low-income residents and nonprofit agencies in the Tampa Bay area including Sarasota County. Areas of Service include Domestic Violence, Housing, Consumer, Senior Advocacy, Family law, Public Benefits, Housing, Tax Assistance, Disaster Relief, etc.
Excellent Self-Help Resources
Phone: Helpline 800-625-2257
Florida Disaster Legal aid Helpline: 833-514-2940
Veterans Legal Helpline: 866-486-6161
Senior Legal Helpline: 888-895-7873
https://www.bals.org
Cenacle Legal Services
Cenacle is a non-profit partnership of local attorneys and the Catholic Diocese of Venice. Pro Bono legal services are provided for the clients, who do not qualify for free Legal Aid. Attorneys affiliated with Cenacle Legal Services will take on cases in the areas of housing, elderly affairs, minor children, public benefits, and consumer right for residents in the underserved cities of Venice, North Port, & Englewood in south Sarasota County.
237 Nassau Street (Epiphany Cathedral)
Venice, FL
Phone: 941-244-0308 Evelyn Moya, Executive Director
Citizen Dispute Settlement Program and Pre-Filing Mediation
Provides individuals the opportunity to resolve disputes in a neutral and confidential setting before a court case is filed. Participants can avoid court costs, attorney’s fees and time lost from work by participating in mediation rather than litigation. If the parties reach an agreement in mediation, the mediator can reduce the agreement to memorandum for signing. There is no cost to the parties for this service.
· Citizen Dispute Settlement Program
This free program helps resolve issues before a case is filed such as auto sales, condo, consumer complaints, contracts, debts, employer/employee, repairs, landlord/tenant, neighborhood disputes, property damage, etc.…
· Pre-Filing Family Mediation Program
This program offers an opportunity to work out a family matter before a case is filed. To be eligible for the program, neither party may have previously filed any family division court case involving the same parties or children. Examples of topics to be mediated are parental responsibility, parenting plans, child support, and distribution of assets or debts.
2071 Ringling Blvd.
Sarasota. FL
Phone: 941-861-7833
4004 South Tamiami Trail
Venice, Florida 34293
Phone: 941-861-7800
https://www.jud12.flcourts.org/ProgramsServices.aspx (click on programs and services)
Florida Bar Lawyer Referral Service
The Florida Bar Lawyer Referral Service and local bar association lawyer referral services are designed to make it easy for consumer to contact a lawyer. Fee is $25 for 30 minutes initial half-hour consultation.
Phone: 1-800-342-8011
www.floridabar.org/ Go to menu then public and click on Lawyer Referral Service
Florida Courts
This website has online forms under self- help for family law and resources for self-help centers, legal aid, probate, small claims, guardianship and elders court and legal information. Select Self-Help
www.flcourts.org
Florida Law Help
Very informative website that provides information about organizations that provide free legal help to low income and moderate-income individuals along with various booklets and information that can be downloaded. Some of the areas covered are consumer, education, family law, housing, public benefits, domestic violence, disability, employment, health, immigration, life planning and seniors.
http://floridalawhelp.org
Florida Legal Services
· Eviction Prevention-Florida Legal Services is part of the Florida Legal Aid (FLA) Eviction Prevention Project, a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development initiative that provides crucial legal aid services to vulnerable residents across the state to protect them from evictions.
· Immigrant & Migrant Rights Project- serves farmworkers and immigrant families Florida, including immigrant children separated from their families.
· Florida Institutional Legal Services (FILS) Project is dedicated to protecting and advancing the rights of indigent people in state custody by providing high quality legal services.
· Domestic Violence- advocacy for survivors of domestic violence or other crimes in non-intimate partner relationships, and human trafficking
· Fair and Affordable Housing project works statewide to preserve affordable housing, support the creation of new affordable housing.
· Economic Opportunity Project strengthens the economic opportunities of low-income and disenfranchised Floridians.
· Children’s Advocacy Project is dedicated to ensuring that all Florida’s children receive the opportunities, supports, and services they need to lead safe, healthy, and productive lives.
· Connecting Kids to Coverage- The FLS Connecting Kids to Coverage Project provides families and pregnant women with assistance applying for health care coverage through Florida’s KidCare and family-related Medicaid programs.
Florida legal Services
P.O. Box 533986
Orlando, FL 32852
Phone: 407-801-4350 Toll-free Eviction Prevention lLne 888-780-0443 Domestic Violence Legal Helpline 850-385-0611
https://www.floridalegal.org
Florida Senior Legal Helpline
The Senior Legal Helpline provides free legal advice and brief services by telephone to eligible Florida residents aged 60 and older, for civil (not criminal) legal problems.
Phone: 1-888-895-7873
http://elderaffairs.state.fl.us/doea/legal_services.php
Florida Free Legal Answers
Free, 24/7 legal advice available over your computer, phone, or tablet.
It sounds unbelievable, but there are already 500 licensed attorneys waiting to answer your questions.
The Florida Bar and the American Bar Association have partnered to create a free online legal clinic where licensed attorneys volunteer their time to provide emailed responses to citizens' civil legal questions.
Topics may include family law matters such as divorce, child support, adoption, and name change, as well as domestic violence, bankruptcy, consumer issues, education, employment, housing, workers' compensation, wills, and estate planning.
https://florida.freelegalanswers.org
Gulfcoast Legal Services, Inc.
Services include:
· Senior Services
· Family & Domestic Violence
· Financial Stability
· Housing
· Immigration
· Human Trafficking
· Ex-offenders re-Entering Society.
· LGBT Individuals
· Tax, SSI Disability & Consumer matters
Client eligibility is clearly defined in each of GLS’s grants. Most specify that our clients must earn under 250% of the federal poverty level. Some specify even lower levels (200% FPL or below) except for agency VOCA funding which provides services for all victims of crime, regardless of income and funding for clients aged 60+.
112 Manatee Ave. E. FL2
Bradenton, FL. 34208
Phone: 941-746-6151
1101 Tamiami Trail S, Suite 101
Venice, FL 34285
Phone: 800-230-5920
www.gulfcoastlegal.org
Gulfcoast Legal Services, Inc.- Taxes (Grant) LITC
Free legal information and representation regarding taxes is available for low-income residents of Sarasota County. Services include substantiating income tax credits/deductions, assistance with audits, help with IRS liens, responding to letters from IRS, tax court representation and additional help with other tax problems.
Phone for appointment at taxpayer clinic
112 Manatee Ave. E. FL2
Bradenton, FL. 34208
Phone: 941-746-6151
www.gulfcoastlegal.org
Legal Aid of Manasota, Inc.
Case Restrictions: No contingency fee/personal injury. 150% of federal poverty guidelines for family law and 150% for all other matters.
Services include.
Landlord/Tenant issues
Consumer Issues
Divorce Clinic
Domestic Violence
Veterans
Seniors
Guardianship
Housing
Medical Legal Partnership
Nonprofit Assistance
Wills & Advance Directives
1900 Main St 302
Sarasota FL 34236-5927
Phone: 941-366-0038 Fax: 941-364-8855
749 Shamrock Blvd.
Venice, FL 34293
Phone: 941-492-4631
www.legalaidofmanasota.org
Sarasota County Sheriff's Office Victim Assistance Program
Provides crisis intervention counseling and follow up assistance to primary and secondary victims of crime as well as to witnesses of crime. Services are free and do not require a police report; services include crisis intervention, emotional support, homicide bereavement support, assistance through legal and judicial processes, and information and referrals. There is no emergency funding available through this office. The office of the Attorney General Bureau of Victim Compensation provides the Victim Compensation Program. Services are also available for other crisis situations such as traffic accidents and suicide survivors. Critical Incident Stress Debriefings are also available.
6010 Cattleman Blvd.
Sarasota, FL 34232
Phone: 941-861-4942
https://www.sarasotasheriff.org/programs_and_amp_services/victim_assistance/index.php
Seniors vs. Crime
Program to help seniors who have been a victimized or otherwise taken advantage of by businesses or service providers. Civil matters only. There is no charge for these services.
Local office is at the Senior Friendship Centers.
Phone: 941- 954-5566 or 800-203-3099
www.seniorsvscrime.com
Victim’s Advocate Program –Sarasota Police Dept.
The Victim Advocate Program (VAP) is a crucial resource to victims of crime, witnesses to crime, and those experiencing crisis and trauma in the City of Sarasota. It is a vital link to the community showing law enforcement’s support to crime victims and those affected by crisis by providing critical assistance and resources in times of tragedy.
Services:
2099 Adams Lane
Sarasota, Florida 34237
Phone: 941-263-6773 and 941-316-1199
The Women’s Resource Center of Sarasota County
· Ask-A-Lawyer is individual consultation with an attorney for 30 minutes. Appointments made only after Peer Referral Advisor contact.
Sarasota
340 South Tuttle Avenue
Sarasota, Florida 34237
Phone: 941-366-1700
Venice
530 US Highway-41 Bypass South 5-A
Venice Florida
Phone: 941-485-9724
1926 Manatee Ave. W.
Bradenton, Florida
Phone: 941-747-6797
http://www.mywrc.org
Websites for free legal advice and information:
· Free Legal Answers
Free, 24/7 legal advice available over your computer, phone, or tablet.
It sounds unbelievable, but there are already 500 licensed attorneys waiting to answer your questions.
The Florida Bar and the American Bar Association have partnered to create a free online legal clinic where licensed attorneys volunteer their time to provide emailed responses to citizens' civil legal questions. Income limit is 250% FPL.
https://florida.freelegalanswers.org Website is locked Copy and paste the name of the site floridafreelegalanswers.org in search box.
You can find free legal information and resources at:
IMMIGRATION AND HISPANIC SERVICES
United States Citizenship and Immigration Services
Phone: 1-800-375-5283 for Information
Phone: 1-800-870-3676 for Forms
Catholic Charities Immigration Services- Not in Sarasota or Manatee Counties
Catholic Charities Immigration Services are provided by DOJ certified counselors. Counselors are bilingual in English and Spanish. DOJ certified counselors help clients with application preparation, support documentation, and referral services. Immigration Services include assistance in reuniting separated families, permanent residency adjustment, work authorization, consular processing, and United States citizenship.
211 South 9th St.
Immokalee, FL 34142
Phone: 239-657-6242
4235 Michigan Avenue Link
Fort Myers, FL 33916
Phone: 239-334-4007 ext. 2401
1210 East Oak Street
Arcadia, FL 34266
Phone: 239-334-4007 ext. 2401
https://catholiccharitiesdov.org/services/immigration-services/
Gulf Coast JFCS Refugee Services
Gulf Coast JFCS is helping uplift lives by welcoming and newcomers of all faiths and ethnicities on their first steps on their paths to safety and stability across the State of Florida.
Programs include:
Clearwater, FL 33760
Phone: 727-479-1800
Sylvia Acevedo Senior Director, Refugee & Employment Services
Phone:727-580-9790
Email:[email protected]
https://gulfcoastjewishfamilyandcommunityservices.org/refugee-services/
Florida Legal Services
· Immigrant & Migrant Rights Project- serves farmworkers and immigrant families Florida, including immigrant children separated from their families.
· Florida legal Services
· P.O. Box 533986
· Orlando, FL 32852
· Phone: 407-801-4350 Toll-free Disaster line 888-780-0443
https://www.floridalegal.org
Gulfcoast
Legal Services
(GLS) is the only legal aid program that provides free legal assistance in immigration cases for eligible low-income individuals residing in Hillsborough, Pinellas, Manatee, and Sarasota Counties. GLS may handle the following types of cases for eligible immigrants:
Domestic-violence related cases: An abused spouse or child of a legal permanent resident or a United States citizen may be able to self-petition for legal status in the United States under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) without his or her abuser’s assistance.
Removal of Conditional Residence: A conditional lawful permanent resident whose spouse is abusive and will not cooperate in removing the conditional status may be able to ask for a waiver of their cooperation.
U Visas: An immigrant who has suffered substantial abuse as the result of having been a victim of certain criminal activity and has been helpful in the investigation or prosecution of that crime may be eligible for a U visa. U visa status allows victims of domestic violence who cannot self-petition under VAWA because they are not married to their abuser, or their abuser is not a legal permanent resident or United States citizen, to obtain legal status.
T Visas: Victims of trafficking in persons may be able to petition for a form of legal status in the United States called a T visa.
1112Manatee Ave. E.
Bradenton, FL 34208
Phone: 941-746-6151 or 800-230-5920
2350 Scenic Drive
Venice, FL 34293
Phone: 800-230-5920
https://gulfcoastlegal.org
Latinas of WRC
Serves the growing diversity of Latinas in our community through resources, education, support, and community outreach. Assisting Latinas in empowering themselves, and creating leaders by developing a network of support and community
WRC of Manatee- Mondays 6:00-8:000p.m. No Cost.
1926 Manatee Ave
West Bradenton, FL
Phone: 941-747-6797
www.mywrc.org
Literacy Council of Sarasota
For adults. Free one on one tutoring to learn the English language.
Classes include reading, writing and comprehension skills.
1750 17th Street K-3
Sarasota, Florida
Phone: 941-955-0421
https://www.sarasotaliteracy.org
Lutheran Services
· Refugee Resettlement Services
· Refugees Employment and Self-Sufficiency
This program assists eligible refugees/entrants in the process of gaining economic independence and achieving self-sufficiency by means of a comprehensive case management approach to services.
Sarasota, FL 34234
Phone: 941-203-4947
3627 W. Waters Ave.
Tampa, FL. 33614
Phone: 813-875-1408
https://www.lsfnet.org/refugees-and-immigrants/refugee-support/#resettlement
Medical Exams for Immigration Sarasota Passport Health
When applying for a Visa, Green Card, United States Citizenship or change of status, an immigration medical exam is required to be completed through an authorized Civil Surgeon. Through the medical exam process, the Civil Surgeon qualifies the applicant as admissible or inadmissible to the United States.
2195 Ringling Blvd.
Sarasota, FL 34237
Phone: 941-362-0304
www.passporthealthusa.com
Refugee Health Florida Department of Health
Most Refugee Resettlement Program participants received an overseas medical examination prior to coming to the U.S. Once here, refugees* are offered a health assessment to be completed within eight months from their date of arrival at no charge to them, including the vaccinations needed for adjustment of immigration status.
Refugees with identified health conditions are referred to primary care physicians and specialists.
Refugee Health Case Managers are currently located in Duval, Hillsborough, and Orange counties. To learn more about their services, contact the Refugee Health Case Manager in your county.
2195 Ringling Blvd.
Sarasota, FL 34237
Phone: 850-901-6521
https://www.floridahealth.gov/programs-and-services/community-health/refugee-health/services.html
St. Jude’s Church – Blessed Carlos Manuel Hispanic American Center
Spiritual guidance, social services and referrals for Hispanics, Latinos and all who ask for help, according to individual needs. Programs include weekly food distribution on Wed and Sat.).
3930 17th Street
Sarasota, Florida
Phone: 941-955-3934
https://www.stjudechurchsarasota.com
Ukraine Refugee Resources:
· Host Ukraine refugees’ websites
o www.Ukrainetakeshelter.com/
· Donations websites and phone numbers
o Jewish Federation of Fl. Suncoast 941-727-530-3223
o www.Coafoundation.com/
o Epiphany Ukraine Catholic Church 727-576-1001
Nine Non-Governmental Organizations Work With, And Are Funded By, The Department Of State and HHS To Resettle Refugees
The U.S. refugee resettlement program involves a number of processes, some overseas and others on the domestic front.
Inside the United States, nine non-governmental organizations work with, and are funded by, the Department of State to resettle refugees. These religious or community-based organizations referred to as voluntary agencies (or volags) help resettled refugees with the following: reception upon arrival; support with housing, food, and clothing; community orientation; English lessons, enrollment in various benefits and welfare programs; referral to social service providers (including health care, employment), etc.
Church World Service (CWS)
https://cwsglobal.org
Government grants (contributions): $186,438,735 (84.6%)
Episcopal Migration Ministries (EMM)
https://episcopalmigrationministries.org
EMM receives very little money from the church-wide budget, instead receiving 99.5 percent of its funding from the federal government.
Ethiopian Community Development Council (ECDC)
https://www.ecdcus.org
Government Grants (Contributions): $66,392,090 (92 percent)
Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society (HIAS)
https://www.hias.org
Government Grants (Contributions): $69,085,014 (51 percent)
International Rescue Committee (IRC)
https://www.rescue.org
Government grants (contributions): $990,171,000 (67percent)
Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Services (LIRS)
Government grants (contributions): $221,476,051 (96 percent)
U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants (USCRI)
https://www.refugees.org
Government Grants: $283,885,942 (96 percent)
United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB)
http://www.usccb.org/about/migration-and-refugee-services/index.cfm
Government contracts and grants revenue: $117,202,900 (90 percent)
World Relief Corporation (WR)
https://worldrelief.org/about/
Government Grants: $126,026,563 (77 percent)
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· Avvo
Attorney reviews and disciplinary records for lawyers in every state, free legal answers, and forms and legal services for a fixed fee.
www.Avvo.com
· Lawyers.com
Attorney reviews, information, and free legal answers
www.Lawyers.com
All Areas of the Law- Informative Website
This award-winning website provides free legal information in all areas of the law. It also provides lawyer profiles and a community to help you make the best legal decisions. The website also provides a link to “do it yourself legal documents’.
www.findlaw.com
Bay Area Legal Services, Inc.
Pro Bono legal services are provided for qualified low-income residents and nonprofit agencies in the Tampa Bay area including Sarasota County. Areas of Service include Domestic Violence, Housing, Consumer, Senior Advocacy, Family law, Public Benefits, Housing, Tax Assistance, Disaster Relief, etc.
Excellent Self-Help Resources
Phone: Helpline 800-625-2257
Florida Disaster Legal aid Helpline: 833-514-2940
Veterans Legal Helpline: 866-486-6161
Senior Legal Helpline: 888-895-7873
https://www.bals.org
Cenacle Legal Services
Cenacle is a non-profit partnership of local attorneys and the Catholic Diocese of Venice. Pro Bono legal services are provided for the clients, who do not qualify for free Legal Aid. Attorneys affiliated with Cenacle Legal Services will take on cases in the areas of housing, elderly affairs, minor children, public benefits, and consumer right for residents in the underserved cities of Venice, North Port, & Englewood in south Sarasota County.
237 Nassau Street (Epiphany Cathedral)
Venice, FL
Phone: 941-244-0308 Evelyn Moya, Executive Director
Citizen Dispute Settlement Program and Pre-Filing Mediation
Provides individuals the opportunity to resolve disputes in a neutral and confidential setting before a court case is filed. Participants can avoid court costs, attorney’s fees and time lost from work by participating in mediation rather than litigation. If the parties reach an agreement in mediation, the mediator can reduce the agreement to memorandum for signing. There is no cost to the parties for this service.
· Citizen Dispute Settlement Program
This free program helps resolve issues before a case is filed such as auto sales, condo, consumer complaints, contracts, debts, employer/employee, repairs, landlord/tenant, neighborhood disputes, property damage, etc.…
· Pre-Filing Family Mediation Program
This program offers an opportunity to work out a family matter before a case is filed. To be eligible for the program, neither party may have previously filed any family division court case involving the same parties or children. Examples of topics to be mediated are parental responsibility, parenting plans, child support, and distribution of assets or debts.
2071 Ringling Blvd.
Sarasota. FL
Phone: 941-861-7833
4004 South Tamiami Trail
Venice, Florida 34293
Phone: 941-861-7800
https://www.jud12.flcourts.org/ProgramsServices.aspx (click on programs and services)
Florida Bar Lawyer Referral Service
The Florida Bar Lawyer Referral Service and local bar association lawyer referral services are designed to make it easy for consumer to contact a lawyer. Fee is $25 for 30 minutes initial half-hour consultation.
Phone: 1-800-342-8011
www.floridabar.org/ Go to menu then public and click on Lawyer Referral Service
Florida Courts
This website has online forms under self- help for family law and resources for self-help centers, legal aid, probate, small claims, guardianship and elders court and legal information. Select Self-Help
www.flcourts.org
Florida Law Help
Very informative website that provides information about organizations that provide free legal help to low income and moderate-income individuals along with various booklets and information that can be downloaded. Some of the areas covered are consumer, education, family law, housing, public benefits, domestic violence, disability, employment, health, immigration, life planning and seniors.
http://floridalawhelp.org
Florida Legal Services
· Eviction Prevention-Florida Legal Services is part of the Florida Legal Aid (FLA) Eviction Prevention Project, a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development initiative that provides crucial legal aid services to vulnerable residents across the state to protect them from evictions.
· Immigrant & Migrant Rights Project- serves farmworkers and immigrant families Florida, including immigrant children separated from their families.
· Florida Institutional Legal Services (FILS) Project is dedicated to protecting and advancing the rights of indigent people in state custody by providing high quality legal services.
· Domestic Violence- advocacy for survivors of domestic violence or other crimes in non-intimate partner relationships, and human trafficking
· Fair and Affordable Housing project works statewide to preserve affordable housing, support the creation of new affordable housing.
· Economic Opportunity Project strengthens the economic opportunities of low-income and disenfranchised Floridians.
· Children’s Advocacy Project is dedicated to ensuring that all Florida’s children receive the opportunities, supports, and services they need to lead safe, healthy, and productive lives.
· Connecting Kids to Coverage- The FLS Connecting Kids to Coverage Project provides families and pregnant women with assistance applying for health care coverage through Florida’s KidCare and family-related Medicaid programs.
Florida legal Services
P.O. Box 533986
Orlando, FL 32852
Phone: 407-801-4350 Toll-free Eviction Prevention lLne 888-780-0443 Domestic Violence Legal Helpline 850-385-0611
https://www.floridalegal.org
Florida Senior Legal Helpline
The Senior Legal Helpline provides free legal advice and brief services by telephone to eligible Florida residents aged 60 and older, for civil (not criminal) legal problems.
Phone: 1-888-895-7873
http://elderaffairs.state.fl.us/doea/legal_services.php
Florida Free Legal Answers
Free, 24/7 legal advice available over your computer, phone, or tablet.
It sounds unbelievable, but there are already 500 licensed attorneys waiting to answer your questions.
The Florida Bar and the American Bar Association have partnered to create a free online legal clinic where licensed attorneys volunteer their time to provide emailed responses to citizens' civil legal questions.
Topics may include family law matters such as divorce, child support, adoption, and name change, as well as domestic violence, bankruptcy, consumer issues, education, employment, housing, workers' compensation, wills, and estate planning.
https://florida.freelegalanswers.org
Gulfcoast Legal Services, Inc.
Services include:
· Senior Services
· Family & Domestic Violence
· Financial Stability
· Housing
· Immigration
· Human Trafficking
· Ex-offenders re-Entering Society.
· LGBT Individuals
· Tax, SSI Disability & Consumer matters
Client eligibility is clearly defined in each of GLS’s grants. Most specify that our clients must earn under 250% of the federal poverty level. Some specify even lower levels (200% FPL or below) except for agency VOCA funding which provides services for all victims of crime, regardless of income and funding for clients aged 60+.
112 Manatee Ave. E. FL2
Bradenton, FL. 34208
Phone: 941-746-6151
1101 Tamiami Trail S, Suite 101
Venice, FL 34285
Phone: 800-230-5920
www.gulfcoastlegal.org
Gulfcoast Legal Services, Inc.- Taxes (Grant) LITC
Free legal information and representation regarding taxes is available for low-income residents of Sarasota County. Services include substantiating income tax credits/deductions, assistance with audits, help with IRS liens, responding to letters from IRS, tax court representation and additional help with other tax problems.
Phone for appointment at taxpayer clinic
112 Manatee Ave. E. FL2
Bradenton, FL. 34208
Phone: 941-746-6151
www.gulfcoastlegal.org
Legal Aid of Manasota, Inc.
Case Restrictions: No contingency fee/personal injury. 150% of federal poverty guidelines for family law and 150% for all other matters.
Services include.
Landlord/Tenant issues
Consumer Issues
Divorce Clinic
Domestic Violence
Veterans
Seniors
Guardianship
Housing
Medical Legal Partnership
Nonprofit Assistance
Wills & Advance Directives
1900 Main St 302
Sarasota FL 34236-5927
Phone: 941-366-0038 Fax: 941-364-8855
749 Shamrock Blvd.
Venice, FL 34293
Phone: 941-492-4631
www.legalaidofmanasota.org
Sarasota County Sheriff's Office Victim Assistance Program
Provides crisis intervention counseling and follow up assistance to primary and secondary victims of crime as well as to witnesses of crime. Services are free and do not require a police report; services include crisis intervention, emotional support, homicide bereavement support, assistance through legal and judicial processes, and information and referrals. There is no emergency funding available through this office. The office of the Attorney General Bureau of Victim Compensation provides the Victim Compensation Program. Services are also available for other crisis situations such as traffic accidents and suicide survivors. Critical Incident Stress Debriefings are also available.
6010 Cattleman Blvd.
Sarasota, FL 34232
Phone: 941-861-4942
https://www.sarasotasheriff.org/programs_and_amp_services/victim_assistance/index.php
Seniors vs. Crime
Program to help seniors who have been a victimized or otherwise taken advantage of by businesses or service providers. Civil matters only. There is no charge for these services.
Local office is at the Senior Friendship Centers.
Phone: 941- 954-5566 or 800-203-3099
www.seniorsvscrime.com
Victim’s Advocate Program –Sarasota Police Dept.
The Victim Advocate Program (VAP) is a crucial resource to victims of crime, witnesses to crime, and those experiencing crisis and trauma in the City of Sarasota. It is a vital link to the community showing law enforcement’s support to crime victims and those affected by crisis by providing critical assistance and resources in times of tragedy.
Services:
- On-scene crisis intervention
- Follow up crisis intervention sessions
- Emotional support
- Exploration of options
- Practical assistance
- Assistance throughout the criminal justice system
- Assistance with applying for injunctions for protection
- Accompaniment to medical, judicial, and legal proceedings (as related to the criminal case)
- Assistance in applying for victim compensation
- Providing transportation (when available) to legal and judicial appointments (related to the criminal case)
- Assistance in retrieving property
- Providing general information and referrals.
2099 Adams Lane
Sarasota, Florida 34237
Phone: 941-263-6773 and 941-316-1199
The Women’s Resource Center of Sarasota County
· Ask-A-Lawyer is individual consultation with an attorney for 30 minutes. Appointments made only after Peer Referral Advisor contact.
Sarasota
340 South Tuttle Avenue
Sarasota, Florida 34237
Phone: 941-366-1700
Venice
530 US Highway-41 Bypass South 5-A
Venice Florida
Phone: 941-485-9724
1926 Manatee Ave. W.
Bradenton, Florida
Phone: 941-747-6797
http://www.mywrc.org
Websites for free legal advice and information:
· Free Legal Answers
Free, 24/7 legal advice available over your computer, phone, or tablet.
It sounds unbelievable, but there are already 500 licensed attorneys waiting to answer your questions.
The Florida Bar and the American Bar Association have partnered to create a free online legal clinic where licensed attorneys volunteer their time to provide emailed responses to citizens' civil legal questions. Income limit is 250% FPL.
https://florida.freelegalanswers.org Website is locked Copy and paste the name of the site floridafreelegalanswers.org in search box.
You can find free legal information and resources at:
- FloridaLawHelp.org - Florida's free legal information website and directory of all legal aid offices throughout the state. Areas of law include Family Law, Domestic Violence, Immigration, Housing, Public Benefits, Seniors, Consumer, Community Education, and Education.
- Free Family Law Forms - Supreme Court of Florida approved Family Law Forms.
- Florida Bar's Consumer Pamphlets and Videos - The Florida Bar provides information to the public on certain general areas of law as well as specific issues.
- Self Help Centers Near You - Access to information regarding local self-help programs throughout the state.
- Legal Assistance and Information for Elders - Access to legal assistance information, elder abuse, and exploitation.
- Landlord Tenant Forms - Access to forms and residential leases.
IMMIGRATION AND HISPANIC SERVICES
United States Citizenship and Immigration Services
Phone: 1-800-375-5283 for Information
Phone: 1-800-870-3676 for Forms
Catholic Charities Immigration Services- Not in Sarasota or Manatee Counties
Catholic Charities Immigration Services are provided by DOJ certified counselors. Counselors are bilingual in English and Spanish. DOJ certified counselors help clients with application preparation, support documentation, and referral services. Immigration Services include assistance in reuniting separated families, permanent residency adjustment, work authorization, consular processing, and United States citizenship.
211 South 9th St.
Immokalee, FL 34142
Phone: 239-657-6242
4235 Michigan Avenue Link
Fort Myers, FL 33916
Phone: 239-334-4007 ext. 2401
1210 East Oak Street
Arcadia, FL 34266
Phone: 239-334-4007 ext. 2401
https://catholiccharitiesdov.org/services/immigration-services/
Gulf Coast JFCS Refugee Services
Gulf Coast JFCS is helping uplift lives by welcoming and newcomers of all faiths and ethnicities on their first steps on their paths to safety and stability across the State of Florida.
Programs include:
- Florida Center for Survivors of Torture
- Integrated Refugee Services
- National Partnership for Community Training
- Refugee Assistance Fund
- Refugee Career Pathways Program
- Refugee Employment Match Grant Program
- Refugee Micro-Enterprise Development
- Refugee Preferred Communities
- Refugee Resettlement & Placement
Clearwater, FL 33760
Phone: 727-479-1800
Sylvia Acevedo Senior Director, Refugee & Employment Services
Phone:727-580-9790
Email:[email protected]
https://gulfcoastjewishfamilyandcommunityservices.org/refugee-services/
Florida Legal Services
· Immigrant & Migrant Rights Project- serves farmworkers and immigrant families Florida, including immigrant children separated from their families.
· Florida legal Services
· P.O. Box 533986
· Orlando, FL 32852
· Phone: 407-801-4350 Toll-free Disaster line 888-780-0443
https://www.floridalegal.org
Gulfcoast
Legal Services
(GLS) is the only legal aid program that provides free legal assistance in immigration cases for eligible low-income individuals residing in Hillsborough, Pinellas, Manatee, and Sarasota Counties. GLS may handle the following types of cases for eligible immigrants:
Domestic-violence related cases: An abused spouse or child of a legal permanent resident or a United States citizen may be able to self-petition for legal status in the United States under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) without his or her abuser’s assistance.
Removal of Conditional Residence: A conditional lawful permanent resident whose spouse is abusive and will not cooperate in removing the conditional status may be able to ask for a waiver of their cooperation.
U Visas: An immigrant who has suffered substantial abuse as the result of having been a victim of certain criminal activity and has been helpful in the investigation or prosecution of that crime may be eligible for a U visa. U visa status allows victims of domestic violence who cannot self-petition under VAWA because they are not married to their abuser, or their abuser is not a legal permanent resident or United States citizen, to obtain legal status.
T Visas: Victims of trafficking in persons may be able to petition for a form of legal status in the United States called a T visa.
1112Manatee Ave. E.
Bradenton, FL 34208
Phone: 941-746-6151 or 800-230-5920
2350 Scenic Drive
Venice, FL 34293
Phone: 800-230-5920
https://gulfcoastlegal.org
Latinas of WRC
Serves the growing diversity of Latinas in our community through resources, education, support, and community outreach. Assisting Latinas in empowering themselves, and creating leaders by developing a network of support and community
WRC of Manatee- Mondays 6:00-8:000p.m. No Cost.
1926 Manatee Ave
West Bradenton, FL
Phone: 941-747-6797
www.mywrc.org
Literacy Council of Sarasota
For adults. Free one on one tutoring to learn the English language.
Classes include reading, writing and comprehension skills.
1750 17th Street K-3
Sarasota, Florida
Phone: 941-955-0421
https://www.sarasotaliteracy.org
Lutheran Services
· Refugee Resettlement Services
· Refugees Employment and Self-Sufficiency
This program assists eligible refugees/entrants in the process of gaining economic independence and achieving self-sufficiency by means of a comprehensive case management approach to services.
- Case Management
- Employment
- Adult and vocational education assessing current skills and potential in the workplace.
- Legal services
- Youth services
- Mentoring
- Childcare services
- Translation and English as a Second Language (ESL) tutoring
- Referrals to medical professionals and other service providers
- Cultural orientation
- Mentoring services
- Connections with local churches and community groups
- Housing assistance
Sarasota, FL 34234
Phone: 941-203-4947
3627 W. Waters Ave.
Tampa, FL. 33614
Phone: 813-875-1408
https://www.lsfnet.org/refugees-and-immigrants/refugee-support/#resettlement
Medical Exams for Immigration Sarasota Passport Health
When applying for a Visa, Green Card, United States Citizenship or change of status, an immigration medical exam is required to be completed through an authorized Civil Surgeon. Through the medical exam process, the Civil Surgeon qualifies the applicant as admissible or inadmissible to the United States.
2195 Ringling Blvd.
Sarasota, FL 34237
Phone: 941-362-0304
www.passporthealthusa.com
Refugee Health Florida Department of Health
Most Refugee Resettlement Program participants received an overseas medical examination prior to coming to the U.S. Once here, refugees* are offered a health assessment to be completed within eight months from their date of arrival at no charge to them, including the vaccinations needed for adjustment of immigration status.
Refugees with identified health conditions are referred to primary care physicians and specialists.
Refugee Health Case Managers are currently located in Duval, Hillsborough, and Orange counties. To learn more about their services, contact the Refugee Health Case Manager in your county.
2195 Ringling Blvd.
Sarasota, FL 34237
Phone: 850-901-6521
https://www.floridahealth.gov/programs-and-services/community-health/refugee-health/services.html
St. Jude’s Church – Blessed Carlos Manuel Hispanic American Center
Spiritual guidance, social services and referrals for Hispanics, Latinos and all who ask for help, according to individual needs. Programs include weekly food distribution on Wed and Sat.).
3930 17th Street
Sarasota, Florida
Phone: 941-955-3934
https://www.stjudechurchsarasota.com
Ukraine Refugee Resources:
- Gulf Coast JFCS Refugee Services
· Host Ukraine refugees’ websites
o www.Ukrainetakeshelter.com/
· Donations websites and phone numbers
o Jewish Federation of Fl. Suncoast 941-727-530-3223
o www.Coafoundation.com/
o Epiphany Ukraine Catholic Church 727-576-1001
Nine Non-Governmental Organizations Work With, And Are Funded By, The Department Of State and HHS To Resettle Refugees
The U.S. refugee resettlement program involves a number of processes, some overseas and others on the domestic front.
Inside the United States, nine non-governmental organizations work with, and are funded by, the Department of State to resettle refugees. These religious or community-based organizations referred to as voluntary agencies (or volags) help resettled refugees with the following: reception upon arrival; support with housing, food, and clothing; community orientation; English lessons, enrollment in various benefits and welfare programs; referral to social service providers (including health care, employment), etc.
Church World Service (CWS)
https://cwsglobal.org
Government grants (contributions): $186,438,735 (84.6%)
Episcopal Migration Ministries (EMM)
https://episcopalmigrationministries.org
EMM receives very little money from the church-wide budget, instead receiving 99.5 percent of its funding from the federal government.
Ethiopian Community Development Council (ECDC)
https://www.ecdcus.org
Government Grants (Contributions): $66,392,090 (92 percent)
Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society (HIAS)
https://www.hias.org
Government Grants (Contributions): $69,085,014 (51 percent)
International Rescue Committee (IRC)
https://www.rescue.org
Government grants (contributions): $990,171,000 (67percent)
Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Services (LIRS)
Government grants (contributions): $221,476,051 (96 percent)
U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants (USCRI)
https://www.refugees.org
Government Grants: $283,885,942 (96 percent)
United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB)
http://www.usccb.org/about/migration-and-refugee-services/index.cfm
Government contracts and grants revenue: $117,202,900 (90 percent)
World Relief Corporation (WR)
https://worldrelief.org/about/
Government Grants: $126,026,563 (77 percent)
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