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Virginia Poverty Law Center
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Justice and Equity for Low-Income Virginians

We believe safety, justice, fairness, and opportunity belong to everyone. That’s why we fight for policies—and people—that create lasting change across Virginia.

About Our Work

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Legal tools, guidance, and self-advocacy resources to help you navigate the Virginia legal system.

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Our Work

Since 1978, we’ve been a source of information on poverty law issues. From new lawyer training to educational outreach to leadership on advocacy issues, we ensure that low-income Virginians’ voices are heard by our legal system.

Advocacy

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We advocate alongside communities and within the General Assembly to shape policies and fight for a more just and equitable Virginia.

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Education

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VPLC’s educational programs provide communities, partners, and policymakers with accessible tools, resources, and training to support informed advocacy for economic justice and essential services.

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Litigation

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VPLC uses the power of the court system to fight for low-income Virginians, holding both private corporations and the state accountable to ensure fairness and justice for all.

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We help make Virginia better for low-income residents with work in:

Ensuring Access to Safe and Affordable Housing

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Supporting Families and Children in Crisis

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Protecting Consumer Rights and Economic Fairness

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Ensuring Access to Healthcare, Essential Benefits, and Healthy Communities

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Stories from Virginians

These profiles put a face on the work VPLC does by sharing the real lives of people across Virginia who are confronting hardship, striving for justice, and making change. From Richmond to Chesapeake to Franklin, each story—whether it’s of foster youth reclaiming agency, immigrants seeking stability, or community members preserving traditions—illustrates how legal support, advocacy, and compassionate intervention are helping turn obstacles into hope.

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News and Insights

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May is Foster Care Month. But Should We Celebrate?

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By Valerie L’Herrou, Esq.

There is a lot to celebrate when families step up to provide a safe and loving home for children who have been placed in foster care. But putting kids in foster care is no reason for joy.

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VPLC and Community Partners Bring Tenant Town Halls Across Virginia

Virginia renters are facing rising housing costs, eviction concerns, maintenance issues, and major changes in housing laws.

Give People Access to Virginia Courts

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By James W. (Jay) Speer, Esq.

Courts Should Be Instruments of Progress, Not Weapons of Oppression

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Our Impact

Fighting predatory lending. Stopping evictions. Helping shape legislation. Our work drives lasting, people-first change at every level.

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Upcoming VPLC Events

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Richmond Tenant Town Hall

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Richmond Public Library, Main Branch
101 East Franklin Street
Richmond, VA 23219

Join us to learn about new tenant protections, ask questions, and share your experience as a tenant in Virginia.

Danville Tenant Town Hall

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Southside Community Learning Center
524 Chatham Avenue
Danville, VA 24541

Join us to learn about new tenant protections, ask questions, and share your experience as a tenant in Virginia.

Blacksburg Tenant Town Hall

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Unitarian Universalist Congregation (Elarth Hall)
1301 Gladewood Drive
Blacksburg, VA 24060

Join us to learn about new tenant protections, ask questions, and share your experience as a tenant in Virginia.

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Get Involved

Take Action for Justice

We can all create lasting change for low-income Virginians. When you donate, advocate, or share your story, your voice strengthens our mission. Together, we’re fighting for fairness, supporting vulnerable communities, and building a future rooted in equity, dignity, justice, and opportunity for all.

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