For Ohioans and their families struggling with substance use disorders (SUD), a civil legal problem is often one more roadblock on the path to recovery.
Ohio’s legal organizations are experts in removing these roadblocks, helping low-income Ohio families impacted by SUD secure housing and health care services, ensure children are cared for, escape domestic violence, and remove obstacles to employment.
The Ohio legislature recognizes that legal aid is an essential partner in fighting the addiction crisis. In its most recent budget, the Foundation received $500,000 from the Ohio Legislature in General Revenue Funding designated for assisting with legal issues arising from SUD, a $250,000 increase over the previous biennium.
With this additional support, the Foundation will increase the current allocation of funding to each legal aid and expand its grant program to include Pro Seniors, further helping to improve stability and recovery for those affected by SUD.
“This is an important opportunity to help more Ohio families grappling with substance use,” said Angie Lloyd, the Foundation’s executive director. “We’re grateful for the legislature’s leadership in recognizing legal aid’s critical role in stabilizing Ohioans and their families.”
The Ohio Access to Justice Foundation is the largest funder of civil legal services in Ohio. A gift to the Foundation supports legal aid’s work.