9/11 Clean-Up Volunteers and the Victim Compensation Fund

Following the tragedy of the September 11th attacks and the immediate rescue and recovery, a massive cleanup effort began. For months, men and women tirelessly removed debris, cleared dust, and tested the environment in New York City – facing significant health risks in the process. 

Thankfully, the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) recognizes the sacrifices and efforts of these individuals by offering them a path to financial assistance.

Clean-Up Workers and VCF Eligibility

The VCF acknowledges the dangers faced by those who participated in the post-attack cleanup efforts. These individuals may be eligible for compensation, but they must meet specific criteria:

• Presence at a Covered Location: They must have been present at the World Trade Center site, the Pentagon site,or the Shanksville, Pennsylvania site within designated timeframes. The timeframe for the World Trade Center site and surrounding areas is particularly relevant to clean-up workers: September 11, 2001, to May 30, 2002.
• Development of a 9/11-Related Health Condition: The individual must have a physical illness or condition certified by the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) to be connected to their exposure at the 9/11 sites.

The List of Clean-Up Roles

The clean-up effort at Ground Zero and surrounding areas consisted of a wide range of tasks, each crucial for recovery and rebuilding. Here’s some of the clean-up workers who may be eligible for VCF compensation:

• Construction Workers: They led the clean-up by operating heavy machinery to remove tons of twisted steel, pulverized concrete, and debris from the collapsed towers. They also prepped the site for future construction and rebuilding.
• Ironworkers: These skilled professionals used torches and saws to cut through massive steel beams, facilitating the removal of debris and creating safe passages for other workers.
• Sanitation Workers: Sanitation workers played a critical role. They cleared dust, debris, and potentially hazardous materials from streets, sidewalks, and buildings in Lower Manhattan, ensuring a safer environment for residents and future construction.
• Environmental Workers: These specialists played a vital yet unseen role. They tested the air and soil quality around Ground Zero, monitoring for contaminants like asbestos, lead, and other toxins that could pose health risks to workers and the public.
• Volunteers: Countless volunteers joined the cleanup effort, often working alongside professional crews. They helped with tasks like sorting debris, removing dust from buildings, and providing emotional support to first responders and recovery workers.

Applying for the 9/11 Victims Compensation Fund (VCF)

It’s important to remember that the dust cloud from the collapsing towers settled over a large area of Lower Manhattan. Exposure to dust and toxins in the surrounding areas during the designated time frame could still qualify them for the VCF.

If this applies to you, HHWA members have access to free assistance from a lawyer who often represents 9/11 victims and their families seeking benefits from the Fund.

Tap below to fill out the form, and a lawyer will be in contact within 48 hours.