Access to Justice Is at Risk

As the federal government shutdown continues, a new threat has emerged for the legal aid system that millions of Americans rely on. Congress is debating proposals to eliminate the Legal Services Corporation (LSC) — the largest funder of civil legal aid in the country.

This critical funding supports NLSLA and 129 other programs nationwide. If Congress allows these cuts to go through, tens of thousands of Angelenos — veterans, seniors, families, and survivors of abuse — could lose access to life-changing legal help.

For 60 years, NLSLA has provided free legal assistance to those who can’t afford a lawyer. Last year alone, we helped nearly 175,000 clients resolve urgent issues — from wrongful evictions and domestic violence to elder fraud and health care denials.

This work is possible because of federal support from LSC, which makes up almost 20% of our annual budget. That funding, combined with support from generous donors like you, allows us to respond quickly in times of crisis — such as after the 2025 Los Angeles wildfires, when our attorneys helped survivors secure housing, recover documents, and access FEMA aid, and NLSLA continues to do this work.

A Smart Investment in Justice
Despite its immense impact, LSC funding represents only 0.035% of the federal domestic budget, and every $1 invested in legal aid generates $7 in economic return.

Cutting this funding won’t save money — it will cost lives and put greater strain on our hospitals, courts, and emergency services.

You Can Help
If you believe that everyone deserves access to justice — regardless of income — please make a gift to NLSLA today.

Your support is needed now more than ever to ensure that our most vulnerable neighbors are not left without help in their greatest moments of need.