Posted January 18, 202312:35 pm
We provided this update on local events, community updates, and other newsworthy items to our partners and public officials.
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Hello from Legal Aid! Legal Aid is available in person, by phone and online to meet our clients’ needs. Applicants can now schedule a call back time when they apply for help online at lasclev.org. Please reach out with any questions or requests. We look forward to hearing from you in 2023!
Please share this information widely:
Free legal clinics – 2023 calendar now available
For a printable bilingual flyer (PDF) of Legal Aid's upcoming FREE legal advice clinics scheduled for early 2023, click here: Winter 2023 Clinic Flyer. We encourage folks to come speak with us at an in-person clinic for free legal advice about civil legal issues related to shelter, safety, consumer rights, education, work, and more. Visit the events page on our website anytime to view the current clinic schedule.
Legal Aid’s community and economic development work
Did you know that Legal Aid represents community groups in addition to individuals? Community groups include tenants and neighbors, nonprofits, collectives, and more. Legal Aid also represents entrepreneurs through the Legal Center for Low-Income Entrepreneurs. Legal Aid provides legal assistance and referrals so that entrepreneurs can effectively grow their business. Learn more on our website.
SNAP Emergency Allotments Ending Soon
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) emergency allotments many households have received since March 2020 will end with the last issuance in February 2023. These emergency allotments were a response to the COVID-19 public health emergency and meant that all SNAP households received the maximum SNAP benefits each month. Beginning March 2023, all SNAP households will only receive their standard SNAP benefits. This may mean some households, particularly seniors, will see a significant decrease in these vital benefits. See the news post on our website for more information and additional resources.
Winter Utility Assistance
As winter continues, the cold temperatures will bring energy cost increases. There are several utility payment assistance programs available to low-income individuals. Most people will need to complete an application form and contact their local Community Action Agency for an appointment. More information about these programs and the application process is available online: energyhelp.ohio.gov.
Free Tax Preparation Assistance
A variety of resources are available to help Northeast Ohio residents with tax preparation. Contact 2-1-1 or visit our website for links to tax preparation assistance programs in Ashtabula, Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, and Lorain Counties.
Legal Aid assists people who owe back taxes or have a dispute with the IRS. Those facing problems with their federal taxes can apply to Legal Aid’s Low Income Taxpayer Clinic for assistance. More information and resources can be found on our website. Note: Legal Aid does not help prepare and file tax returns.
Thank you for your partnership in striving for justice throughout Northeast Ohio. As always, please reach out with any questions or ideas!
Sincerely,
Anne K. Sweeney
Managing Attorney for Community Engagement
The Legal Aid Society of Cleveland
Direct: 216.861.5242 / Main: 216.861.5500
Email: anne.sweeney@lasclev.org
lasclev.org
Rights. Dignity. Justice.