Illinois State House District 17 issued the following announcement on April 14.
Dear Neighbor:
With the COVID-19 outbreak impacting almost every facet of everyday life, we want to let you know that affordable legal aid is available during these difficult times. Navigating the legal system can be stressful under ordinary circumstances, and this crisis has put vulnerable populations at higher risk of housing insecurity, domestic violence and job loss. Having an effective advocate improves outcomes for those most in need, and there are organizations in our community that can help.
There are a variety of legal aid clinics and community-based organizations offering assistance to individuals with a wide-range of issues such as public benefits, housing laws, and healthcare. These resources can be accessed both through the internet and phone and are either low cost or free.
Whether you or someone you know is in need of assistance, here are some things that are important to know during this crisis:
The state has put a moratorium on evictions (as well as utility disconnections) while Illinois’ Stay at Home Order is in place, which is currently set through April 30. However, you are still responsible for paying your rent and bills. For additional information on rental or mortgage assistance, see below for Housing FAQ.
Debt collectors are not allowed to visit you in person. Please be advised that they can still call you via phone.
The Illinois Attorney General’s Office has compiled a list of legal aid providers offered across the state. Click here to learn more.
The Illinois Equal Justice Foundation has compiled a list of legal aid hotlines for people in need during this pandemic. You can access the list here.
The Lawyer’s Committee for Better Housing is offering housing-specialized assistance. Though their offices are currently closed, they are conducting business via phone. You can learn more here.
Open Communities offers free housing counseling and education as well as legal representation in evictions, foreclosures, and housing discrimination cases. Click here to learn more.
The North Suburban Legal Aid provides accessible pro-bono legal services focused on immigration, domestic violence, and housing issues. You can learn more here.
I have put together a comprehensive source of COVID-19 related resources on my website. Click here to take a look.
No one is immune to the impacts of this pandemic, and I want to thank all of you for doing your part to keep our community safe. Whether it’s by staying home to reduce the spread, volunteering on our team to make wellness calls or donating to organizations serving those most vulnerable in our community, you are making the difference that will get us through these unprecedented times.
If we can help you at all, do not hesitate to reach out on Facebook, via email at Info@GongGershowitz.com, or by calling my office at (847) 486-8810.
I’m #AllinIllinois – let’s do this together. Volunteer to make wellness calls here.
Warm Regards,
Jennifer
Original source can be found here.
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