protester holding sign that reads fight for a better tomorrow

Advocacy

We advocate alongside communities and within the General Assembly to shape policies and fight for a more just and equitable Virginia.

Legislative Advocacy

VPLC is a nonpartisan organization that collaborates with lawmakers, partners, and constituents to shape legislation that protects rights, promotes fairness, and breaks down systemic barriers to justice for all Virginians.

VPLC lawyers posing with signs at stairs of Virginia capitol

Community Advocacy

We build power at the local level by listening to communities and ensuring people know their rights. Our community advocacy work helps us share real people’s stories with legislators in order to create awareness and drive change.

Our Areas of Work

We help make Virginia better for low-income residents with work in a number of different areas.

See the areas in which we work

Kathryn’s Story

In 1999, after the death of her grandparents, Kathryn purchased their home. Her childhood home, where her parents still lived, was just up the hill. Kathryn remembered feeling lucky and grateful her children could have the same family support and memories she’d had as a child. But nineteen years later, Kathryn was experiencing a completely different feeling as she faced, for the fourth time, the possibility of losing her family’s home, the only one her children and grandchild had ever known.

View all VPLC Stories

Our Impact

Learn more about Our Impact

$47.6 Million: increase in yearly unemployment benefits

Legislation secured the first benefit increase in 11 years, adding $52/week for workers and allowing claimants to keep more part-time income.

100,000+ Virginians gaining better access to benefits

Advocacy improved the state’s CommonHelp application system, making it more user-friendly and accessible for those seeking childcare, food, energy, and cash assistance.

18,678 Virginians used the SNAP Calculator

This tool helps families understand eligibility and maximize access to food assistance, strengthening food security across the state.