Legal Aid Benefits Everyone

Many people assume legal aid only helps those who are unemployed or living in poverty. The truth is, it supports entire communities—working families, seniors, and children—by providing stability & security to those who need it most.

Legal Aid’s Impact in North Carolina

In 2024, Legal Aid of North Carolina (LANC) handled 27,437 cases, helping 69,628 people—including 32,496 children and 4,538 seniors. These numbers tell a powerful story: civil legal aid is essential in every county, touching lives in ways that often go unseen.

One common myth is that legal aid only serves the unemployed. In reality, 53% of the people we help are working. Hardworking individuals still face legal challenges that can put their homes, healthcare, jobs, and families at risk.

Why Legal Aid Matters

Legal aid doesn’t just change individual lives—it strengthens entire communities. Studies show that every dollar invested in legal aid generates up to eight dollars in economic benefits. It keeps families in their homes, helps people stay employed, and ensures seniors and veterans receive the benefits they’ve earned.

Legal aid also protects the most vulnerable among us:

• Survivors of Domestic Violence – Securing safety, custody, and financial stability.
• Veterans and Military Families – Accessing benefits, housing, and job opportunities.
• Natural Disaster Survivors – Navigating FEMA appeals, insurance claims, and document recovery.
• Renters and Homeowners – Preventing wrongful evictions and foreclosures.
• Rural Communities – Ensuring justice where legal resources are scarce.

Closing the Justice Gap

Despite its proven benefits, legal aid remains chronically underfunded. Nationwide, 92% of low-income individuals receive little or no legal help when they need it. This “justice gap” doesn’t just hurt individuals—it affects businesses, schools, and local economies when legal issues go unresolved.

A Call to Action

Legal aid is a smart investment and a moral imperative. By supporting Legal Aid of North Carolina—through advocacy, donations, or volunteering—we can create a more just and equitable society. Access to justice should never depend on income. It is a fundamental right that ensures fairness, stability, and opportunity for all.

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