Raleigh is partnering with Campbell Law School to serve low-income Raleigh residents who are facing eviction and homelessness. The “City of Raleigh Housing Justice Project with Campbell Law School” will be a legal clinic run by lawyers and law students.
At its regular meeting May 3, City Council approved $300,000 in funding ($100,000 per year for three years) for the partnership from the American Rescue Plan Act. Funding will support the clinic’s mission to provide advice and counsel as well as legal representation to eligible Raleigh residents in eviction proceedings. Eligible residents must live in Raleigh and be at or below 200% of the federal poverty level.
Campbell Law School Dean J. Rich Leonard presented the partnership proposal during today's City Council meeting.
“The City of Raleigh is proud to partner with Campbell Law School to meet the needs of those facing eviction or housing insecurity,” said Mayor Pro Tem Nicole Stewart. “This new resource will address a core need in our comprehensive approach to address housing affordability, supply, and stability.”
The partnership will be a part the Blanchard Community Law Clinic, which has served more than 1,200 clients since opening in 2016.
“We are thrilled to partner with the City of Raleigh on this important initiative,” said Blanchard Director Ashley Campbell. “There is enormous need for housing legal services in Raleigh, and the Housing Justice Project is a step forward in meeting that need.”
The Housing Justice Project will be located in downtown Raleigh on Martin Street and is expected to open in late summer of 2022.
“Addressing our community's housing needs is one of the City's top priorities," said At-Large City Council Member Jonathan Melton. "This exciting partnership with Campbell Law School will help ensure that individuals and families who are most at risk have the support and resources they need to stay in their homes."
Learn more about the City's goals and plans to address housing issues on our affordable housing page.