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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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One Virginia Lawmaker Wants to Crack Down on “Default Judgements”

Members of the General Assembly are about to consider several bills aimed at affordability. Michael Pope has this preview of one involving debt.

The Virginia State Capitol building in downtown Richmond, Virginia.

Virginia Must Act to Protect Healthcare Access for Children and Families

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By Victoria Richardson, Esq.

Virginia must take advantage of the options it has to protect coverage for children and families and protect the stability of the health care system.

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Virginia’s New Medical Debt Protections Explained

Jay Speer and Amanda Gago Silcox walk listeners to the “Arm and a Leg” podcast through Virginia’s newly-enacted protections against medical debt.

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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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Our Voices, Our Future: Intergenerational Advocacy Day and Rally

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General Assembly Building

A day of action uniting advocates of all ages to champion critical issues impacting Virginia’s youth and families.

Healthy School Meals for All Advocacy Day

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Virginia General Assembly Building

Share your support for healthy school meals for all at the General Assembly on January 22.

Healthcare for All Virginians Advocacy Day

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General Assembly Building, 7th Floor House North Meeting Room

Join VPLC and partners for an advocacy day at the General Assembly focused on improving healthcare access for all Virginians.

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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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