Many people lack the financial resources to get legal help and defend their rights. Legal Services of South Central Michigan (LSSCM) is a United Way partner agency striving to make sure every person can tap legal assistance when needed, regardless of income. Here’s a story of how LSSCM kept a senior citizen from losing his home during the pandemic:
The client, who is disabled, lived in a rented apartment with his partner, who died in May 2020. The deceased partner had been the primary resident of the apartment, and the client was unable to pay the full rent due to the loss of his partner’s income. The client contacted us after his landlord filed an eviction case at court. An LSSCM attorney reviewed the case documents, investigated the case, and connected the client with other local agencies providing rental assistance. The attorney represented the client in the court case and negotiated a settlement with the landlord. The client was able to obtain assistance so that his rent was paid, and his landlord dismissed the court case filed against him. The client’s housing was preserved, avoiding homelessness. The client was also referred to the Social Security Administration for an application for disability income, and to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services for other resources.
We’re grateful to LSSCM—and to you, our supporters!—for addressing needs like these. Please continue donating to United Way and keep making an impact.