Supporting Families and Children in Crisis

We’re working to keep families together, protect children’s well-being, and reform systems that too often harm the very people they’re meant to help. Our advocacy centers dignity, fairness, support, and long-term opportunity for all.

Families in crisis deserve support. VPLC is working to strengthen the systems that protect Virginia’s children, caregivers, and survivors of violence. Through advocacy, education, and legal expertise, we’re fighting to keep families together, ensure fair treatment in family law, and support youth impacted by the foster care system. We also advocate for stronger protections for survivors of domestic and sexual violence, both in the courtroom and in the community.

Whether it’s working to reform child welfare policy or empowering parents through legal resources, our goal is to build a more compassionate, just, and equitable future for all Virginia families.

How We Support Families and Children

little girl holding the hand of an adult

Empowering Youth in Foster Care and Kinship Care

We believe the foster care system should give young people the support they need as they grow up. That’s why we’re fighting for a foster care system that protects and empowers.

woman attending to her two boys eating in the kitchen

Keeping Families Together

Poverty is the leading cause of family separations. We’re fighting to change that by supporting families when they need it the most.

woman covering her mouth, her hand reads silence is violence

Protecting Victims and Survivors of Domestic and Sexual Violence

Leaving an abusive situation is never simple. Survivors need access to justice, resources, and long-term support. We’re working to build systems that protect, as well as provide safety, dignity, and real options.

two people facing away from each other sitting on a bed

Supporting Families through Divorce, Custody, and Visitation

Navigating separation or custody shouldn’t require a lawyer you can’t afford. Everyone deserves access to clear legal information and fair outcomes, no matter your income.

Zukhra’s Story

Zukhra’s marriage was abusive. A mother of two, Zukhra woke up one day and decided she’d had enough of the abuse. She contacted legal aid who helped her get a divorce and custody of her children.

Read Zukhra’s Story

Our Impact

20,000+ Virginians accessed our online divorce self-help tool

This resource gave individuals a clearer, more affordable path through the divorce process by simplifying paperwork and legal requirements.

5,000+ Virginian children in foster care

We work to ensure their rights are protected and their needs prioritized at every stage.

100 Attorneys trained in child welfare representation

VPLC is strengthening Virginia’s child welfare system by ensuring more children and families have skilled advocates during critical legal proceedings.

Online Divorce Self-Help Tool

Featured:

Do-It-Yourself Divorces, Online

Divorce can be stressful, complicated, and sometimes costly. VPLC's online guided process makes it easier and more affordable by simplifying the paperwork and explaining legal requirements.

View the Tool