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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.

Our 2026 Priorities

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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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Paying for Protective Order Relief Means Survivors Stay Safe

For survivors of domestic violence or sexual abuse, protective orders can include housing-related relief such as rent, utilities, or alternative housing.

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Who Can Afford to Serve in the General Assembly?

Members of the Virginia General Assembly currently earn about $18,000 per year in base salary — a level that has remained unchanged since 1992.

Virginia State Capitol

Protecting Families’ Bank Accounts from Devastating Garnishment

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By James W. (Jay) Speer, Esq.

Support SB 301 (Senator VanValkenburg) and HB 602 (Delegate Hernandez)

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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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Justice scales

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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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