Too often what stands between a homeless person and a home is—surprisingly—the law. Evictions, shelter expulsions, terminations of public benefits, and denials of disability services all keep the homeless on the streets, while logistical, emotional, and psychological problems prevent many from seeking legal counsel. WLCH was founded in 1986 by a group of lawyers who decided to take a novel approach: to bring their pro bono services directly to clients. Today, clinic staff and a network of more than 200 volunteer lawyers and paralegals operate out of 7 sites at shelters, day centers, and dining programs throughout the city. In addition to providing critical legal representation, WLCH works with tenant associations to prevent displacement and preserve affordable housing, links homeless families to desperately needed social services, and distributes “Street Rights Cards” to ensure that clients are aware of the protections to which they are entitled. In addition, WLCH is an important voice for change through advocacy. It played a lead role in the successful effort to pass the Disability Rights Protection Act, which in turn created an Office of Disability Rights in the District; and its independent recommendations informed the Fenty administration's review of homeless services. Your support means a voice, and a helping hand, for our most vulnerable citizens.

Patricia Mullahy Fugere, Executive Director 1200 U Street NW, 3rd Floor Washington, DC 20009 202-328-5500 www.legalclinic.org