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Center for Arkansas Legal Services Awarded $394,000 to Boost Pro Bono Services 

September 20, 2023 

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Carl Rauscher  �į&�Բ�����;
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202-295-1615 �į&�Բ�����;

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 WASHINGTON—The ���˶��� (LSC) announced today that it is awarding a Pro Bono Innovation Fund grant of $394,344 to the Center for Arkansas Legal Services (CALS).  

CALS is one of 17 legal aid organizations receiving a grant. In total, LSC is awarding $5 million to support efforts to expand and improve pro bono legal services for low-income Americans.  

In the face of a vast justice gap—where low-income people do not receive sufficient legal help for —pro bono services are one of the approaches that LSC advances to address the disparities in access to justice. Expanding pro bono and other volunteer services gives legal aid providers increased bandwidth to assist low-income Americans in civil issue areas like housing, family, employment and income maintenance, consumer debt, and natural disaster recovery.  

With this grant, CALS will develop its Pro Bono Working Group by conducting a rigorous assessment of its pro bono services and hiring a new Pro Bono Subject Area Manager. The manager will spearhead the creation of a criminal record-sealing clinic and related community outreach efforts. This program will allow CALS to better leverage pro bono services in a highly impactful area of client need.  

“LSC’s Pro Bono Innovation Fund supports grantees’ tireless efforts to expand access to legal services,” said LSC President Ron Flagg. “Pro bono volunteers are an invaluable resource for the millions of low-income Americans in need of legal aid.”   

LSC is awarding these grants from its Pro Bono Innovation Fund (PBIF) included in its FY 2023 congressional appropriation. Since the inception of PBIF in 2014, LSC has awarded 139 grants totaling more than $40 million. Each organization’s project involves creating solutions to persistent challenges in pro bono delivery systems or exploring new ways to implement pro bono services to reach low-income Americans with legal needs. The funds are directed to grantee projects that are replicable and scalable, and which focus on critical, unmet need.   

Senator John Boozman congratulated CALS on receiving the grant for pro bono services.  �į&�Բ�����;

“This grant will enhance legal services available to Arkansans regardless of their financial situation,” Sen. Boozman said. “I’m pleased to support this funding that will connect individuals and families with community resources to help foster a brighter future.”  

(LSC) is an independent nonprofit established by Congress in 1974 to provide financial support for civil legal aid to low-income Americans. The Corporation currently provides funding to 131 independent nonprofit legal aid programs in every state, the District of Columbia, and U.S. territories. �į&�Բ�����;

 

California Legal Aid Providers Awarded $389,000 to Boost Pro Bono Services 

September 20, 2023 

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Carl Rauscher  �į&�Բ�����;
Director of Communications and Media Relations  �į&�Բ�����;
rauscherc@lsc.gov �į&�Բ�����;
202-295-1615 �į&�Բ�����;

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WASHINGTON—The ���˶��� (LSC) announced today that it is awarding Pro Bono Innovation Fund grants to Community Legal Aid SoCal (CLA SoCal) and Neighborhood Legal Services of Los Angeles County (NLSLA). 

CLA SoCal and NLSLA are two of 17 legal aid organizations receiving a grant. In total, LSC is awarding $5 million to support efforts to expand and improve pro bono legal services for low-income Americans.  

In the face of a vast justice gap—where low-income people do not receive sufficient legal help for —pro bono services are one of the approaches that LSC advances to address the disparities in access to justice. Expanding pro bono and other volunteer services gives legal aid providers increased bandwidth to assist low-income Americans in civil issue areas like housing, family, employment and income maintenance, consumer debt, and natural disaster recovery.  

CLA SoCal will use its $313,702 grant to fund the Housing Opportunity and Pro Bono Exchange, also known as Project HOPE. This program leverages pro bono volunteers to reduce the number of evictions judgments in Southeast Los Angeles County and Orange County, CA. Its goal is to help neighbors maintain stable housing through an innovative pro bono eviction defense model that focuses on clinics that provide answers to legal questions. The program includes training, supervision and mentorship to legal professionals with little housing law experience who want to help those facing housing insecurity.  

NLSLA plans to transform its pro bono program into a modern, client-centered project that effectively engages volunteer partners, law firms, corporate law departments and bar associations, with the goal of increasing the number of clients NLSLA can serve. Its $75,752 grant will allow the organization to hire a consultant and undertake a six-month analysis of its current pro bono program and develop a roadmap for an innovative, effective program.  

“LSC’s Pro Bono Innovation Fund gives grantees resources that support their tireless efforts to expand access to legal services,” said LSC President Ron Flagg. “Pro bono volunteers are an invaluable resource for the millions of low-income Americans in need of legal aid.” 

LSC is awarding these grants from its Pro Bono Innovation Fund (PBIF) included in its FY 2023 congressional appropriation. Since the inception of PBIF in 2014, LSC has awarded 139 grants totaling more than $40 million. Each organization’s project involves creating solutions to persistent challenges in pro bono delivery systems or exploring new ways to implement pro bono services to reach low-income Americans with legal needs. The funds are directed to grantee projects that are replicable and scalable, and which focus on critical, unmet need. 

Senator Dianne Feinstein, Representative Nanette Diaz Barragán (CA-44), Representative Tony Cárdenas (CA-29), Representative Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37) and Representative Linda T. Sanchez (CA-38) congratulated CLA SoCal and NLSLA on receiving the grant for pro bono services.  

“I’m pleased ���˶��� is providing funding to two organizations dedicated to providing legal aid to residents of Southern California. Access to an attorney is critical, especially for people threatened with losing their home. The grants provided by ���˶��� will help ensure more Californians can exercise their legal rights,” said Sen. Feinstein. �į&�Բ�����;

“Congratulations to CLA SoCal for receiving the ���˶���’s Pro Bono Innovation Grant for their innovative solutions to help support our communities,” said Rep. Diaz Barragán. “CLA SoCal provides critical services for the communities of Bellflower, Lynwood, Paramount, South Gate, and part of Carson in California's 44th Congressional District. With this award, through Project HOPE, advocates will be able to provide unique pro bono eviction defense services to low-income tenants and train legal professionals. These services are especially critical to keep our community members housed, as COVID-19 tenant protections have expired and homelessness has increased across our country. I am grateful to the professionals at CLA SoCal for their vital work to ensure that legal services are accessible to all.”  

“For nearly 60 years, the Neighborhood Legal Services for Los Angeles County (NLSLA) has become a reputable institution across our county for providing essential legal services to low-income residents at no cost,” said Rep. Cárdenas. “Their commitment to justice, equity, and inclusion has produced incredible results for thousands of individuals and families. I commend the ���˶��� for awarding NLSLA with the Pro Bono Innovation Grant as these funds will go even further in bridging the access gap to the justice system.”  

“Thanks to this tremendous grant award, Community Legal Aid SoCal will be able to continue their vital work of reducing evictions in Southeast Los Angeles and providing crucial legal support for our most vulnerable Angelenos,” said Rep. Kamlager-Dove. “Housing is a fundamental human right, and Community Legal Aid SoCal’s pro bono volunteers are taking up the mantle of justice to ensure every individual facing eviction has the assistance they need to navigate our legal system. We must continue to find ways to support homeowners and keep people in their homes, and sustaining relationships between organizations like ���˶���, Community Legal Aid SoCal, and other local partners is more important than ever. I will continue to serve as a faithful partner in Congress to support efforts like these as we look to long-term solutions for keeping Angelenos housed.”  

“With this support, Community Legal Aid SoCal can continue to provide the training, guidance, and mentorship legal professionals need to help maintain stable housing in Southern California,” said Rep. Sánchez. “Thank you, ���˶���, for your continued support. I am excited to see the good work this grant will accomplish.”  

Legal Services of North Florida Awarded $481,000 to Boost Pro Bono Services 

September 20, 2023 

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Carl Rauscher  �į&�Բ�����;
Director of Communications and Media Relations  �į&�Բ�����;
rauscherc@lsc.gov �į&�Բ�����;
202-295-1615 �į&�Բ�����;

Contact us �į&�Բ�����;

 WASHINGTON—The ���˶��� (LSC) announced today that it is awarding a Pro Bono Innovation Fund grant of $481,386 to Legal Services of North Florida (LSNF).  

LSNF is one of 17 legal aid organizations receiving a grant. In total, LSC is awarding $5 million to support efforts to expand and improve pro bono legal services for low-income Americans.  

In the face of a vast justice gap—where low-income people do not receive sufficient legal help for —pro bono services are one of the approaches that LSC advances to address the disparities in access to justice. Expanding pro bono and other volunteer services gives legal aid providers increased bandwidth to assist low-income Americans in civil issue areas like housing, family, employment and income maintenance, consumer debt, and natural disaster recovery.  

LSNF plans to restructure its pro bono program to be integrated across its 16-county service area. This will increase both the number of clients able to receive legal help and the level of legal assistance volunteers can provide. With its grant, LSNF will conduct a rigorous assessment and use the findings to efficiently integrate the pro bono program across the entire organization, improve and institute effective pro bono reporting systems, and create and implement thoughtful volunteer recruitment and recognition practices. LSNF will test these new approaches in an estate planning pro bono pilot project.    

“LSC’s Pro Bono Innovation Fund supports grantees’ tireless efforts to expand access to legal services,” said LSC President Ron Flagg. “Pro bono volunteers are an invaluable resource for the millions of low-income Americans in need of legal aid.”   

LSC is awarding these grants from its Pro Bono Innovation Fund (PBIF) included in its FY 2023 congressional appropriation. Since the inception of PBIF in 2014, LSC has awarded 139 grants totaling more than $40 million. Each organization’s project involves creating solutions to persistent challenges in pro bono delivery systems or exploring new ways to implement pro bono services to reach low-income Americans with legal needs. The funds are directed to grantee projects that are replicable and scalable, and which focus on critical, unmet need. 

 

Prairie State Legal Services Awarded $517,000 to Boost Pro Bono Services 

September 20, 2023 

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Carl Rauscher  �į&�Բ�����;
Director of Communications and Media Relations  �į&�Բ�����;
rauscherc@lsc.gov �į&�Բ�����;
202-295-1615 �į&�Բ�����;

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WASHINGTON—The ���˶��� (LSC) announced today that it is awarding two Pro Bono Innovation Fund grants of $198,599 and $318,650 to Prairie State Legal Services (PSLS).   

PSLS is one of 17 legal aid organizations receiving a grant. In total, LSC is awarding $5 million to support efforts to expand and improve pro bono legal services for low-income Americans.  

In the face of a vast justice gap—where low-income people do not receive sufficient legal help for —pro bono services are one of the approaches that LSC advances to address the disparities in access to justice. Expanding pro bono and other volunteer services gives legal aid providers increased bandwidth to assist low-income Americans in civil issue areas like housing, family, employment and income maintenance, consumer debt, and natural disaster recovery.  

The $198,599 grant will support PSLS’ efforts to increase access to criminal records relief for low-income clients who experience barriers to employment, housing and financial stability due to a past criminal record. The project will engage law firm attorneys, corporate legal departments and non-attorney volunteers through specific volunteer opportunities at all stages of the criminal records relief process under the mentorship and guidance of PSLS staff.   

The $318,650 grant will allow PSLS to increase the number of clients receiving high-quality legal assistance by streamlining intake and case acceptance processes for pro bono clients across its diverse 36-county service area. PSLS, guided by a consultant, will integrate PSLS’ Pro Bono Unit with its centralized intake system, expedite intake by triaging cases early on, and create new workflows to efficiently move a client from first phone contact to a pro bono attorney with minimal wait time. This grant continues the work of a Pro Bono Innovation Fund grant that PSLS received in 2019.   

“LSC’s Pro Bono Innovation Fund supports grantees’ tireless efforts to expand access to legal services,” said LSC President Ron Flagg. “Pro bono volunteers are an invaluable resource for the millions of low-income Americans in need of legal aid.”   

LSC is awarding these grants from its Pro Bono Innovation Fund (PBIF) included in its FY 2023 congressional appropriation. Since the inception of PBIF in 2014, LSC has awarded 139 grants totaling more than $40 million. Each organization’s project involves creating solutions to persistent challenges in pro bono delivery systems or exploring new ways to implement pro bono services to reach low-income Americans with legal needs. The funds are directed to grantee projects that are replicable and scalable, and which focus on critical, unmet need. 

Senator Dick Durbin, Representative Bill Foster (IL-11), Representative Robin Kelly (IL-2), Representative Eric Sorensen (IL-17), and Representative Lauren Underwood (IL-14) congratulated PSLS on receiving the grant for pro bono services.  

“Pro Bono Innovation Grants recognize the unsung heroes in legal services who tirelessly work to bridge the justice gap,” said Sen. Durbin. “This federal funding paves the way for innovative solutions that address the persistent challenges in our pro bono delivery system, ensuring that the goals of justice and fairness remain steadfastly within our reach.”  

“I applaud these awards for Prairie State Legal Services, which will allow them to enhance and expand pro-bono legal assistance for the most vulnerable people in the far suburbs who often have nowhere else to turn for help,” said Rep. Foster. “The right to competent legal assistance is a core American value, and Prairie State Legal Services works to ensure that a person’s financial situation doesn’t prevent them from accessing quality legal resources and representation. I also appreciate the bipartisan support in Congress for the ���˶��� that makes this work possible.”  

“I am grateful that the ���˶��� has recognized the important impact that Prairie State Legal Services has on our community. This grant funding will provide opportunities for so many people and uplift our entire community. I look forward to supporting efforts to expand economic opportunity in Congress and promoting continued investment in these vital resources,” said Rep. Kelly.  

"Being a good neighbor means making sure the most vulnerable in our communities are able to have their basic needs met and their rights protected under the law," said Rep. Sorensen. "I applaud Prairie State Legal Services for securing this federal grant funding and for advancing their mission to make Central and Northwestern Illinois a more equitable place to live for all families.”  

“For people in our community who have experienced our criminal justice system, having access to quality legal services is essential.” said Rep. Underwood. “It can mean the difference between quality job opportunities on reentry, or facing countless obstacles. It can mean the difference between having affordable health care coverage, or having to bear the high costs of health care alone. Too often, access to quality legal services is a matter of justice, or complete injustice. This grant will improve access to necessary legal services for our community.”  

Kansas Legal Services Awarded $334,000 to Boost Pro Bono Services 

September 20, 2023 

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Carl Rauscher  �į&�Բ�����;
Director of Communications and Media Relations  �į&�Բ�����;
rauscherc@lsc.gov �į&�Բ�����;
202-295-1615 �į&�Բ�����;

Contact us �į&�Բ�����;

WASHINGTON—The ���˶��� (LSC) announced today that it is awarding a Pro Bono Innovation Fund grant of $334,132 to Kansas Legal Services (KLS).  

KLS is one of 17 legal aid organizations receiving a grant. In total, LSC is awarding $5 million to support efforts to expand and improve pro bono legal services for low-income Americans.  

In the face of a vast justice gap—where low-income people do not receive sufficient legal help for —pro bono services are one of the approaches that LSC advances to address the disparities in access to justice. Expanding pro bono and other volunteer services gives legal aid providers increased bandwidth to assist low-income Americans in civil issue areas like housing, family, employment and income maintenance, consumer debt, and natural disaster recovery.  

KLS will use this grant to provide legal assistance to Kansans with suspended driver’s licenses to get their licenses reinstated or changed to restricted status. This removes a serious barrier to clients’ employment or education opportunities. The project will engage volunteer attorneys and legal interns by giving them free legal training and requesting a commitment to participate in time-limited clinics to meet with eligible clients.   

“LSC’s Pro Bono Innovation Fund supports grantees’ tireless efforts to expand access to legal services,” said LSC President Ron Flagg. “Pro bono volunteers are an invaluable resource for the millions of low-income Americans in need of legal aid.”   

LSC is awarding these grants from its Pro Bono Innovation Fund (PBIF) included in its FY 2023 congressional appropriation. Since the inception of PBIF in 2014, LSC has awarded 139 grants totaling more than $40 million. Each organization’s project involves creating solutions to persistent challenges in pro bono delivery systems or exploring new ways to implement pro bono services to reach low-income Americans with legal needs. The funds are directed to grantee projects that are replicable and scalable, and which focus on critical, unmet need. 

Representative Sharice Davids (KS-3) congratulated KLS on receiving the grant for pro bono services.  

“One reason I originally ran for Congress was to ensure the federal government works for folks in every corner of our community. Originally authorized by Congress, these new investments will help Kansans of all income levels access legal assistance and get to work and school safely. I’m always proud to support Kansas Legal Services’ mission,” said Rep. Davids. �į&�Բ�����;

 

Legal Aid Society Awarded $198,000 to Boost Pro Bono Services 

September 20, 2023 

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WASHINGTON—The ���˶��� (LSC) announced today that it is awarding a Pro Bono Innovation Fund grant of $198,090 to Kentucky’s Legal Aid Society.  

Legal Aid Society is one of 17 legal aid organizations receiving a grant. In total, LSC is awarding $5 million to support efforts to expand and improve pro bono legal services for low-income Americans.  

In the face of a vast justice gap—where low-income people do not receive sufficient legal help for —pro bono services are one of the approaches that LSC advances to address the disparities in access to justice. Expanding pro bono and other volunteer services gives legal aid providers increased bandwidth to assist low-income Americans in civil issue areas like housing, family, employment and income maintenance, consumer debt, and natural disaster recovery.  

Legal Aid Society will use this grant to sustain its previous 2021 Pro Bono Innovation Fund grant project, the Volunteer Eviction Defense Project, which is on track to represent 240 low-income tenants through pro bono services by the end of the original grant’s term. In the first 18 months  the project created a Volunteer Resource Library, represented 118 low-income renters in court (80% of whom avoided eviction), and recruited over 60 volunteers with 24 providing representation to clients.   

“LSC’s Pro Bono Innovation Fund supports grantees’ tireless efforts to expand access to legal services,” said LSC President Ron Flagg. “Pro bono volunteers are an invaluable resource for the millions of low-income Americans in need of legal aid.”   

LSC is awarding these grants from its Pro Bono Innovation Fund (PBIF) included in its FY 2023 congressional appropriation. Since the inception of PBIF in 2014, LSC has awarded 139 grants totaling more than $40 million. Each organization’s project involves creating solutions to persistent challenges in pro bono delivery systems or exploring new ways to implement pro bono services to reach low-income Americans with legal needs. The funds are directed to grantee projects that are replicable and scalable, and which focus on critical, unmet need. 

Representative Morgan McGarvey (KY-3) congratulated Legal Aid Society on receiving the grant for pro bono services.  

“Everyone deserves quality legal representation, regardless of income,” said Rep. McGarvey. “This grant to the Legal Aid Society will lend a much needed helping hand to communities across the commonwealth, allowing more Kentuckians to access pro bono legal assistance during eviction proceedings. Housing is absolutely fundamental to so many aspects of life. Without stable housing, everything else becomes secondary. The Legal Aid Society’s Volunteer Eviction Defense Program means fewer Louisvillians will be wrongfully evicted.”  

 

Southeast Louisiana Legal Services Corp. Awarded $287,000 to Boost Pro Bono Services 

September 20, 2023 

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Director of Communications and Media Relations  �į&�Բ�����;
rauscherc@lsc.gov �į&�Բ�����;
202-295-1615 �į&�Բ�����;

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WASHINGTON—The ���˶��� (LSC) announced today that it is awarding a Pro Bono Innovation Fund grant of $287,321 to Southeast Louisiana Legal Services Corp (SLLS).  

SLLS is one of 17 legal aid organizations receiving a grant. In total, LSC is awarding $5 million to support efforts to expand and improve pro bono legal services for low-income Americans.  

In the face of a vast justice gap—where low-income people do not receive sufficient legal help for —pro bono services are one of the approaches that LSC advances to address the disparities in access to justice. Expanding pro bono and other volunteer services gives legal aid providers increased bandwidth to assist low-income Americans in civil issue areas like housing, family, employment and income maintenance, consumer debt, and natural disaster recovery.  

SLLS will use the grant to support its Baton Rouge City Court Eviction Defense Project. The program will help close the justice gap for low-income tenants facing eviction through an on-demand and onsite court-based model. The project will engage volunteer attorneys from Southern University Law Center alumni, the Martinet Society of Greater Baton Rouge and the Baton Rouge Bar Foundation’s Pro Bono Project to provide same-day, limited representation in eviction proceedings delivered under the supervision of SLLS’ project attorney.   

“LSC’s Pro Bono Innovation Fund supports grantees’ tireless efforts to expand access to legal services,” said LSC President Ron Flagg. “Pro bono volunteers are an invaluable resource for the millions of low-income Americans in need of legal aid.”   

LSC is awarding these grants from its Pro Bono Innovation Fund (PBIF) included in its FY 2023 congressional appropriation. Since the inception of PBIF in 2014, LSC has awarded 139 grants totaling more than $40 million. Each organization’s project involves creating solutions to persistent challenges in pro bono delivery systems or exploring new ways to implement pro bono services to reach low-income Americans with legal needs. The funds are directed to grantee projects that are replicable and scalable, and which focus on critical, unmet need. 

Representative Troy A. Carter, Sr. (LA-2) congratulated SLLS on receiving the grant for pro bono services.  

“I applaud the LSC’s $287,321 grant to the Southeast Louisiana Legal Aid Corps, an initiative that showcases the power of innovation and collaboration to address the justice gap. By engaging volunteer attorneys and utilizing an on-demand court-based model, this funding highlights their commitment to providing swift and supervised legal assistance to low-income tenants facing eviction. It also shows dedication to bridging the legal service gaps nationwide. This grant is not just an investment; it's a testament to an unwavering commitment to justice and equity,” said Rep. Carter.  

 

Pine Tree Legal Assistance Awarded $372,000 to Boost Pro Bono Services 

September 20, 2023 

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Carl Rauscher  �į&�Բ�����;
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202-295-1615 �į&�Բ�����;

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WASHINGTON—The ���˶��� (LSC) announced today that it is awarding a Pro Bono Innovation Fund grant of $372,223 to Pine Tree Legal Assistance (PTLA).  

PTLA is one of 17 legal aid organizations receiving a grant. In total, LSC is awarding $5 million to support efforts to expand and improve pro bono legal services for low-income Americans.  

In the face of a vast justice gap—where low-income people do not receive sufficient legal help for —pro bono services are one of the approaches that LSC advances to address the disparities in access to justice. Expanding pro bono and other volunteer services gives legal aid providers increased bandwidth to assist low-income Americans in civil issue areas like housing, family, employment and income maintenance, consumer debt, and natural disaster recovery.  

PTLA will use the grant to recruit pro bono attorneys to improve housing stability for low-income Mainers. The project seeks to continue the work of PTLA’s 2019 Pro Bono Innovation Fund grant pilot project by recruiting volunteers from large and medium-sized law firms in Portland to provide full legal representation to southern Maine tenants at risk of losing their housing through eviction.   

“LSC’s Pro Bono Innovation Fund supports grantees’ tireless efforts to expand access to legal services,” said LSC President Ron Flagg. “Pro bono volunteers are an invaluable resource for the millions of low-income Americans in need of legal aid.”   

LSC is awarding these grants from its Pro Bono Innovation Fund (PBIF) included in its FY 2023 congressional appropriation. Since the inception of PBIF in 2014, LSC has awarded 139 grants totaling more than $40 million. Each organization’s project involves creating solutions to persistent challenges in pro bono delivery systems or exploring new ways to implement pro bono services to reach low-income Americans with legal needs. The funds are directed to grantee projects that are replicable and scalable, and which focus on critical, unmet need. 

Senator Angus King and Representative Chellie Pingree (ME-1) congratulated PTLA on receiving the grant for pro bono services.  

“Ensuring that everyone has access to quality legal assistance — regardless of their financial background— is extremely important, especially when market rates for legal fees are often out-of-reach for some people who need guidance,” said Sen. King. “This funding will fill a much needed gap to ensure that Maine renters at risk of losing their housing have access to high-quality, and no-cost, legal assistance. As demand outpaces supply, ensuring that Maine families can remain in their homes is of the utmost importance. Thank you to Pine Tree Legal Assistance for supporting Maine people and expanding access to legal assistance for those in need.”  

“Being able to access legal representation to avoid eviction is far out of reach for tenants struggling to afford basic necessities like groceries, gas, and childcare—let alone the astronomical rents in many of our communities,” said Rep. Pingree. “Pine Tree Legal Assistance has been an invaluable lifeline for low-income Mainers, giving tenants a fighting chance to avoid eviction as they navigate ongoing challenges brought on by the pandemic and inflation. This significant grant will help Pine Tree Legal Assistance continue their important work to uphold the rights of all Mainers, regardless of their background or financial means.”  

 

Michigan Legal Aid Providers Awarded $625,000 to Boost Pro Bono Services 

September 20, 2023 

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202-295-1615 �į&�Բ�����;

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WASHINGTON—The ���˶��� (LSC) announced today that it is awarding Pro Bono Innovation Fund grants to Legal Aid of Western Michigan (LAWM) and Michigan Indian Legal Services (MILS). 

LAWM and MILS are two of 17 legal aid organizations receiving a grant. In total, LSC is awarding $5 million to support efforts to expand and improve pro bono legal services for low-income Americans. 

In the face of a vast justice gap—where low-income people do not receive sufficient legal help for —pro bono services are one of the approaches that LSC advances to address the disparities in access to justice. Expanding pro bono and other volunteer services gives legal aid providers increased bandwidth to assist low-income Americans in civil issue areas like housing, family, employment and income maintenance, consumer debt, and natural disaster recovery.  

LAWM will use its $443,982 grant to undertake a transformation of its pro bono program. Following a comprehensive program assessment, LAWM will implement program-management structure, process and workflow improvements, and launch a pilot project to promote homeownership in client communities. The improved program will be integrated throughout LAWM’s field offices and with their direct-services advocates, expand their volunteer corps, innovate with new service models and maximize technology tools.   

MILS’ $181,960 grant will support the development of a system for collaborating with experienced private attorneys to develop self-help and educational materials that address the unique legal needs of low-income Native Americans and facilitate replication of the project’s effective practices. The project will initially ask volunteers to develop legal resources related to the state and federal child welfare system. It will then build internal infrastructure, test different practices through feedback and create a toolkit for replication. As part of the evaluation, MILS will partner with MILS Board Member and Wayne State Professor of Law, Kirsten Matoy Carlson, to develop, pilot and evaluate the use of impact measures and outcomes. 

“LSC’s Pro Bono Innovation Fund supports grantees’ tireless efforts to expand access to legal services,” said LSC President Ron Flagg. “Pro bono volunteers are an invaluable resource for the millions of low-income Americans in need of legal aid.”   

LSC is awarding these grants from its Pro Bono Innovation Fund (PBIF) included in its FY 2023 congressional appropriation. Since the inception of PBIF in 2014, LSC has awarded 139 grants totaling more than $40 million. Each organization’s project involves creating solutions to persistent challenges in pro bono delivery systems or exploring new ways to implement pro bono services to reach low-income Americans with legal needs. The funds are directed to grantee projects that are replicable and scalable, and which focus on critical, unmet need. 

 

Legal Services NYC Awarded $300,000 to Boost Pro Bono Services 

September 20, 2023 

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WASHINGTON—The ���˶��� (LSC) announced today that it is awarding a Pro Bono Innovation Fund grant of $300,042 to Legal Services NYC (LSNYC). 

LSNYC is one of 17 legal aid organizations receiving a grant. In total, LSC is awarding $5 million to support efforts to expand and improve pro bono legal services for low-income Americans.  

In the face of a vast justice gap—where low-income people do not receive sufficient legal help for —pro bono services are one of the approaches that LSC advances to address the disparities in access to justice. Expanding pro bono and other volunteer services gives legal aid providers increased bandwidth to assist low-income Americans in civil issue areas like housing, family, employment and income maintenance, consumer debt, and natural disaster recovery.  

LSNYC will use the grant to sustain its public benefits project, initially funded by a 2021 Pro Bono Innovation Fund grant. The program is on track to exceed its project milestones of engaging hundreds of volunteer attorneys to assist low-income New Yorkers with securing essential public benefits for housing and food. The project has made public benefits an integral part of pro bono programming for LSNYC and has promoted the integration of public benefits work into legal aid pro bono nationally. In the first 18 months of LSNYC’s public benefits pro bono project, it has opened more than 300 pro bono cases benefitting more than 500 people, secured approximately $700,000 in financial relief for clients, engaged more than 500 volunteers from over 30 law firms and corporations, and created a “start-up kit” for other legal aid organizations seeking to emulate LSNYC’s approach.   

“LSC’s Pro Bono Innovation Fund supports grantees’ tireless efforts to expand access to legal services,” said LSC President Ron Flagg. “Pro bono volunteers are an invaluable resource for the millions of low-income Americans in need of legal aid.”   

LSC is awarding these grants from its Pro Bono Innovation Fund (PBIF) included in its FY 2023 congressional appropriation. Since the inception of PBIF in 2014, LSC has awarded 139 grants totaling more than $40 million. Each organization’s project involves creating solutions to persistent challenges in pro bono delivery systems or exploring new ways to implement pro bono services to reach low-income Americans with legal needs. The funds are directed to grantee projects that are replicable and scalable, and which focus on critical, unmet need. 

Representative Jerry Nadler (NY-12) and Representative Nydia M. Velázquez (NY-7) congratulated LSNYC on receiving the grant for pro bono services.  

“The ���˶��� is an essential partner in connecting low-income New Yorkers with free legal assistance, and I’m proud to support their work in the appropriations process each year,” said Rep. Nadler, Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Committee. “Today’s grant totaling over $300,000 will help continue LSC’s successful pro bono legal aid for low-income New Yorkers, and I am grateful for their great work to address the gaps in legal services around the country.”  

"LSNYC's pro bono work is vital to ensuring that working-class New Yorkers receive the legal representation they deserve. I'm pleased to see that LSNYC will receive a $300,000 grant to support their efforts to help New Yorkers access vital public benefits related to food and housing. This grant will boost LSNYC's important work and ensure more New Yorkers can obtain the benefits they are entitled to,” said Rep. Velázquez.  

 

West Tennessee Legal Services Awarded $56,000 to Boost Pro Bono Services 

September 20, 2023 

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Carl Rauscher  �į&�Բ�����;
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WASHINGTON—The ���˶��� (LSC) announced today that it is awarding a Pro Bono Innovation Fund grant of $56,717 to West Tennessee Legal Services (WTLS).  

WTLS is one of 17 legal aid organizations receiving a grant. In total, LSC is awarding $5 million to support efforts to expand and improve pro bono legal services for low-income Americans.  

In the face of a vast justice gap—where low-income people do not receive sufficient legal help for —pro bono services are one of the approaches that LSC advances to address the disparities in access to justice. Expanding pro bono and other volunteer services gives legal aid providers increased bandwidth to assist low-income Americans in civil issue areas like housing, family, employment and income maintenance, consumer debt, and natural disaster recovery.  

WTLS plans to create a high-quality, effective and integrated pro bono program that furthers WTLS’ mission to provide equal access to justice to west Tennesseans. The grant will allow WTLS to assess its current pro bono program and plan transformative changes. WTLS will engage in a six-month assessment focused on client-centered internal pro bono processes from intake to case closure, alignment of pro bono priorities with WTLS priorities, and identification of service delivery models for meeting the developed priorities. It will also look at the staffing needed to operate the transformed program; strategies for volunteer recruitment, training, and mentoring; and make recommendations for next steps toward transformation.   

“LSC’s Pro Bono Innovation Fund supports grantees’ tireless efforts to expand access to legal services,” said LSC President Ron Flagg. “Pro bono volunteers are an invaluable resource for the millions of low-income Americans in need of legal aid.”   

LSC is awarding these grants from its Pro Bono Innovation Fund (PBIF) included in its FY 2023 congressional appropriation. Since the inception of PBIF in 2014, LSC has awarded 139 grants totaling more than $40 million. Each organization’s project involves creating solutions to persistent challenges in pro bono delivery systems or exploring new ways to implement pro bono services to reach low-income Americans with legal needs. The funds are directed to grantee projects that are replicable and scalable, and which focus on critical, unmet need. 

 

Legal Aid of Northwest Texas Awarded $384,000 to Boost Pro Bono Services 

September 20, 2023 

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WASHINGTON—The ���˶��� (LSC) announced today that it is awarding a Pro Bono Innovation Fund grant of $384,937 to Legal Aid of Northwest Texas (LANWT).  

LANWT is one of 17 legal aid organizations receiving a grant. In total, LSC is awarding $5 million to support efforts to expand and improve pro bono legal services for low-income Americans.  

In the face of a vast justice gap—where low-income people do not receive sufficient legal help for —pro bono services are one of the approaches that LSC advances to address the disparities in access to justice. Expanding pro bono and other volunteer services gives legal aid providers increased bandwidth to assist low-income Americans in civil issue areas like housing, family, employment and income maintenance, consumer debt, and natural disaster recovery.  

With this grant, LANWT aims to help low-income Texans living in the two largest counties in its service area with individual arrest and conviction records that should be expunged or subject to nondisclosure orders. These records limit opportunities for employment, housing, state licenses and other benefits.  Collaborating with Dallas Volunteer Attorney Program and Tarrant County Volunteer Attorney Services, the project will recruit and train pro bono attorneys to represent clients in court to obtain expungement or nondisclosure orders. The project seeks to recruit and train 200 pro bono attorneys and 100 law students to handle 600 extended service cases.   

“LSC’s Pro Bono Innovation Fund supports grantees’ tireless efforts to expand access to legal services,” said LSC President Ron Flagg. “Pro bono volunteers are an invaluable resource for the millions of low-income Americans in need of legal aid.”   

LSC is awarding these grants from its Pro Bono Innovation Fund (PBIF) included in its FY 2023 congressional appropriation. Since the inception of PBIF in 2014, LSC has awarded 139 grants totaling more than $40 million. Each organization’s project involves creating solutions to persistent challenges in pro bono delivery systems or exploring new ways to implement pro bono services to reach low-income Americans with legal needs. The funds are directed to grantee projects that are replicable and scalable, and which focus on critical, unmet need. 

Representative Jasmine Crockett (TX-30) congratulated LANWT on receiving the grant for pro bono services.  

“As a former public defender, I know from experience how a single conviction, even over a minor infraction, can impact a person’s career and life for years or decades. I’ve watched too many people caught up in the justice system have their career prospects, housing, and family situations ruined by a single conviction that haunts them long after it should. No one should have their life defined and limited by one mistake,” said Rep. Crockett. “I am grateful to the ���˶��� for this life-changing grant to Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas to fund their efforts to provide legal aid for Texans in the process of expunging past convictions. Your work is an important step towards breaking the cycle of poverty and mass imprisonment that has dragged down North Texans for too long.”  

 

Virginia Legal Aid Providers Awarded $484,000 to Boost Pro Bono Services 

September 20, 2023 

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WASHINGTON—The ���˶��� (LSC) announced today that it is awarding Pro Bono Innovation Fund grants to the Legal Aid Society of Eastern Virginia (LASEV) and Legal Services of Northern Virginia (LSNV).  

LASEV and LSNV are two of 17 legal aid organizations receiving a grant. In total, LSC is awarding $5 million to support efforts to expand and improve pro bono legal services for low-income Americans. 

In the face of a vast justice gap—where low-income people do not receive sufficient legal help for —pro bono services are one of the approaches that LSC advances to address the disparities in access to justice. Expanding pro bono and other volunteer services gives legal aid providers increased bandwidth to assist low-income Americans in civil issue areas like housing, family, employment and income maintenance, consumer debt, and natural disaster recovery.  

The Legal Aid Society of Eastern Virginia (LASEV) will use its $398,660 grant to expand its pro bono legal assistance program to address the eviction crisis in its service area by engaging volunteer attorneys. The Eviction Expungement Project will address tenants’ rental and credit histories to reduce barriers to obtaining affordable housing. The project seeks to engage volunteers through “docket days” in their local general district courts to assist tenants with eviction expungements by providing holistic advice regarding their credit, identifying existing barriers for tenants and developing additional solutions and referrals. 

With its $86,250 grant, LSNV will assess its current pro bono practices and identify ways to develop a program that works in tandem with LSNV’s core services through coordinated referrals, clear and effective clinic frameworks, and creative partnerships to provide quality, holistic legal services to their clients. As the first step, LSNV will undertake a six-month assessment by third-party business process analysts focused on developing surveys for staff and the board of directors, compiling case data and internally assessing current views of pro bono work. The analysis will allow LSNV to lay the groundwork to later turn attention outward, working with legal partners, volunteers and community connections to improve how the Pro Bono Program connects internal mentors with external volunteers.   

“LSC’s Pro Bono Innovation Fund supports grantees’ tireless efforts to expand access to legal services,” said LSC President Ron Flagg. “Pro bono volunteers are an invaluable resource for the millions of low-income Americans in need of legal aid.”   

LSC is awarding these grants from its Pro Bono Innovation Fund (PBIF) included in its FY 2023 congressional appropriation. Since the inception of PBIF in 2014, LSC has awarded 139 grants totaling more than $40 million. Each organization’s project involves creating solutions to persistent challenges in pro bono delivery systems or exploring new ways to implement pro bono services to reach low-income Americans with legal needs. The funds are directed to grantee projects that are replicable and scalable, and which focus on critical, unmet need. 

Senator Tim Kaine, Senator Mark Warner, Representative Gerry Connolly (VA-11), Representative Bobby Scott (VA-3) and Representative Jennifer Wexton (VA-10) congratulated LASEV and LSNV on receiving the grants for pro bono services.  

“I’m glad the Legal Aid Society of Eastern Virginia (LASEV) and Legal Services of Northern Virginia (LSNV) are receiving funding from the ���˶���’s Pro Bono Innovation Fund, which I’ve been proud to support in Congress,” said Sen. Kaine. “This funding is critical to supporting LASEV’s work to make sure more Virginians have access to safe, affordable housing and LSNV’s efforts to improve and expand their pro bono services.”  

“Pro bono legal work is crucial for providing representation to those who would otherwise be unable to afford it. The Legal Aid Society of Eastern Virginia and Legal Services of Northern Virginia have committed their lawyers and resources to this important cause, and these grants will help ensure that people across the Commonwealth are receiving proper legal support, regardless of their ability to pay,” said Sen. Warner. �į&�Բ�����;

“Uninhibited access to legal counsel is a foundational tenant of our justice system,” said Rep. Connolly. “Without it, there can be no truly equal justice under the law. I am thrilled that the ���˶��� is supporting such important work here in Northern Virginia, and I congratulate Legal Services of Northern Virginia on their selection for this grant.”  

“I want to congratulate the Legal Aid Society of Eastern Virginia on receiving this Pro Bono Innovation Grant. Everyone deserves a life free of housing insecurity, and this grant will keep even more Virginians housed and educated on their options and rights,” said Rep. Scott. �į&�Բ�����;

"Legal Services of Northern Virginia does outstanding work in our region to uphold justice and ensure the legal rights of every member of our community. They are a reliable partner for my team in Virginia's 10th Congressional District to help get our constituents the assistance they have a right to and deserve,” said Rep. Wexton. “I'm proud that this federal assistance will help the organization enhance its pro bono services for those in need and look forward to the new ways it will enable them to serve our community."  

 

Legal Services Vermont Awarded $227,000 to Boost Pro Bono Services 

September 20, 2023 

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Carl Rauscher  �į&�Բ�����;
Director of Communications and Media Relations  �į&�Բ�����;
rauscherc@lsc.gov �į&�Բ�����;
202-295-1615 �į&�Բ�����;

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WASHINGTON—The ���˶��� (LSC) announced today that it is awarding a Pro Bono Innovation Fund grant of $227,982 to Legal Services Vermont (LSV). 

LSV is one of 17 legal aid organizations receiving a grant. In total, LSC is awarding $5 million to support efforts to expand and improve pro bono legal services for low-income Americans.  

In the face of a vast justice gap—where low-income people do not receive sufficient legal help for —pro bono services are one of the approaches that LSC advances to address the disparities in access to justice. Expanding pro bono and other volunteer services gives legal aid providers increased bandwidth to assist low-income Americans in civil issue areas like housing, family, employment and income maintenance, consumer debt, and natural disaster recovery.  

This grant will allow LSV to increase its volunteer base and enhance the pro bono culture in Vermont by leveraging the state’s first-year attorney licensing requirements. Newly licensed attorneys can work towards fulfilling their requisite 40 hours of experiential learning through participation in LSV’s pro bono program. LSV will coordinate with the Vermont State Bar and the court’s attorney licensing office to promote this pro bono engagement and related trainings for newly licensed attorneys.   

“LSC’s Pro Bono Innovation Fund supports grantees’ tireless efforts to expand access to legal services,” said LSC President Ron Flagg. “Pro bono volunteers are an invaluable resource for the millions of low-income Americans in need of legal aid.”   

LSC is awarding these grants from its Pro Bono Innovation Fund (PBIF) included in its FY 2023 congressional appropriation. Since the inception of PBIF in 2014, LSC has awarded 139 grants totaling more than $40 million. Each organization’s project involves creating solutions to persistent challenges in pro bono delivery systems or exploring new ways to implement pro bono services to reach low-income Americans with legal needs. The funds are directed to grantee projects that are replicable and scalable, and which focus on critical, unmet need. 

Representative Becca Balint (VT at-large) congratulated LSV on receiving the grant for pro bono services.  

“Quality legal services should be accessible no matter your income,” said Rep. Balint. “This grant will ignite Vermont’s existing volunteer culture and help get Vermonters the legal services they need. I’m excited to see grants like these working to chip away at the justice gap.”