BREAKING: LA’s ‘We Are LA’ Program Surpasses 1,000 Eviction Prevention Cases – Urgent Aid Available
Los Angeles is taking a powerful stand against the city’s housing crisis. Mayor Karen Bass today announced that the “We Are LA” program has already provided assistance to over 1,000 Los Angeles residents facing the devastating threat of eviction. This milestone comes as the city doubles down on efforts to stabilize housing and provide critical resources to those most vulnerable, and is a significant win for SEO and Google News visibility for the city’s initiatives.
A Lifeline for Angelenos: How ‘We Are LA’ Works
Launched in June by The Mayor’s Fund, a non-profit organization, “We Are LA” connects individuals and families at risk of eviction with vital legal services and housing resources. The program’s new dedicated office in South Los Angeles, unveiled today, signifies a commitment to expanding access to these crucial services. The program isn’t just reactive; it’s designed for early intervention, helping families stay in their homes before an eviction notice becomes a reality. This proactive approach is a key component of Mayor Bass’s comprehensive plan to address the city’s humanitarian crisis.
Serene Nuñez, a program user, shared a deeply personal story. “Life can change in an instant,” she explained. “One day I had a stable job, and the next, I was facing eviction.” Nuñez credits “We Are LA” with guiding her through the complex paperwork, deadlines, and legal jargon, ensuring she didn’t have to navigate the crisis alone. Stories like hers underscore the program’s human impact.
Expanding Access: New Office and ‘Right to Counsel’
The new Social Assistance Office, located at 5440 Crenshaw Blvd., will operate seven days a week, offering in-person and phone support. Conway Collis, Executive Director of The Mayor’s Fund, emphasized, “Our social workers are available to help, expert and attentive, to help in person or by phone the seven days of the week.” This expanded accessibility is crucial for reaching those who need help most.
Adding another layer of protection, the Los Angeles City Council approved a “right to counsel” program on Tuesday. This initiative will provide legal defense to tenants facing eviction, ensuring a more level playing field in housing court. This is a landmark step towards ensuring equitable access to justice for all Angelenos. The combination of “We Are LA” and the “right to counsel” program represents a powerful one-two punch against displacement.
Beyond Eviction: Supporting Veterans and Youth
“We Are LA” doesn’t just serve families facing general eviction. The program also specifically supports veterans and young people in host homes, helping them secure and maintain stable housing. This targeted approach recognizes the unique challenges faced by these populations and provides tailored assistance.
City Council President Harris-Dawson hailed the new office as a beacon of “hope, resources and a future where each Angeleno has the opportunity to prosper.” The expansion into the Croww district, his eighth town hall, is a testament to the program’s growing reach and impact.
As Mayor Bass stated, “Preventing people from staying home is key in our efforts to address this humanitarian crisis.” The program’s success, coupled with a recent two-month decrease in homelessness – the first in recent history – demonstrates that these efforts are yielding positive results.
If you or someone you know is facing eviction, don’t wait. Contact “We Are LA” directly at 213-584-1808 or visit mayorsfundla.org. Resources are available, and help is within reach. Understanding your rights as a tenant is the first step towards securing your housing. Numerous online resources, such as those provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), can offer valuable information and guidance.
The success of “We Are LA” isn’t just a local story; it’s a model for cities across the nation grappling with similar housing challenges. By prioritizing prevention, expanding access to legal aid, and providing comprehensive support, Los Angeles is demonstrating a commitment to ensuring that everyone has a safe and stable place to call home.
