Bank of America Awards Legal Aid $25,000 to Secure Basic Needs and Promote Economic Stability in Low-Income Communities

The Bank of America Charitable Foundation recently awarded 35 nonprofit organizations in the Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati areas nearly $1.3 million dollars. Legal Aid received $25,000 to support our work protecting shelter and economic stability through civil legal services across Northeast Ohio.

"This partnership with Bank of America helps us continue to respond to the increased needs in our community that have arisen due to the coronavirus pandemic," says Melanie Shakarian, Esq, Director of Development and Communications for Legal Aid. "Legal Aid helps families maintain stability and access basic needs when they are experiencing times of crisis. In the past year, we have seen requests for help with housing and employment issues increase significantly."

The grant is part of the first round of grants that Bank of America will provide to local nonprofits this year. This round addressed economic mobility for individuals and families, which include investing in workforce development, education and basic needs. These grants are part of the Bank’s commitment to responsible growth as it works to improve the financial lives of individuals and families. Philanthropic and volunteer investments play a key role in this effort to build thriving communities.

“Addressing community needs through our philanthropic investments is just one way we deploy capital to help build a more sustainable community,” said Jeneen Marziani, Ohio State President for Bank of America. “We’re honored to partner with nonprofit organizations like The Legal Aid Society of Cleveland across Ohio that are helping to advance economic and social progress, in particular for vulnerable populations.”