Arizona Gov. Hobbs taps $5 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds for legal aid programs

PHOENIX — Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs has awarded $5 million to four organizations in an effort to support the state’s civil legal aid resources.

The funds will go to Southern Arizona Legal Aid, Community Legal Services, DNA People’s Legal Services, and the Arizona Foundation for Legal Services and Education.

“The services provided by these organizations are critical to the strength and success of our state, including helping families access the housing protection and other critical services they need. When we’re able to help more people in tough situations, we give them a better chance at being able to thrive and realize their full potential,” Hobbs said in a press release.

Support eligible for funding can include preventing eviction, overcoming damaged credit and maintaining enrollment in public resources such as social security or disability income.

With this award, the new eligibility requirements will cover an additional 1 million Arizonans, raising the income cap for a family of four from $37,500 to $60,000.

“This funding is an historic, first step towards increasing equal access to justice and will help keep Arizonans housed, keep families safe, and protect the rights of low-income families,” Kevin Ruegg, CEO of the Arizona Foundation for Legal Services & Education, said in a press release.

The $5 million comes from the American Rescue Plan Act and was provided through a contract with the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES).

Community Legal Services will receive $2.4 million, Southern Arizona Legal Aid will receive $1.3 million, DNA People’s Legal Services will receive $600,000. An additional $600K will go to public legal education administered by the Arizona Foundation for Legal Services and Education.

Follow @KTAR923