The affordable housing crisis has significantly contributed to rising homelessness rates in many regions. One of the busiest areas of our work at the Legal Aid and Defender Association (LADA) is helping people remain in their homes by ensuring that crucial repairs for safety and well-being are implemented and by giving a voice to the housing needs of the most vulnerable and under-served members of our society. Read more
The shortage of safe and affordable housing, coupled with the fact that the available housing stock is far outpacing incomes, is locking many low-income individuals and families out of stable housing. This increases homelessness, which often leads to further societal costs, including an increased strain on emergency services, healthcare systems, and social services.
At LADA, we work with vulnerable populations to ensure their rights to access safe and stable housing are protected and enforced. Some of the services we provide include:
- Legal Representation for Vulnerable Populations: In many landlord-tenant disputes, tenants do not understand their rights. Through legal advice, negotiations, and court representation, we ensure that tenants’ rights are upheld and that their homes remain safe and habitable.
- Eliminating Barriers to Housing: Many individuals with a conviction record are not repeat offenders and have paid their dues, yet their record prevents them from successful reentry into society by resulting in a denial of access to affordable housing opportunities. LADA conducts regular expungement clinics to help eliminate these barriers to housing and employment. Additionally, we assist individuals in connecting with the appropriate agencies to secure stable housing and supportive services.
- Fighting Housing Discrimination: LADA ensures that individuals are not discriminated against in their quest for fair housing by advocating for their rights and holding discriminatory landlords accountable.
Addressing the affordable housing crisis is critical to reducing homelessness. Strategies such as expanding the affordable housing stock, implementing rent controls, limiting unfair fees and charges, as well as providing emergency rental assistance can help alleviate the burden on low-income populations and prevent homelessness. Sometimes, a tenant may be behind in rent due to an unexpected expense such as a medical bill or a car repair. Working to connect these tenants with rent assistance resources, or to negotiate payment plans, are one of the ways LADA helps our clients remove these unavoidable “bumps in the road” that can often lead to housing instability. At LADA, we are committed to working with individuals to keep them in their homes and to addressing the barriers that stand in their way.
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