PARKERSBURG – Legal Aid of West Virginia has received funding from the city of Parkersburg to prevent homelessness in Wood County.

The Parkersburg/Wood County HOME Consortium awarded $145,982 in HOME-American Rescue Plan funds to Legal Aid that will provide eviction prevention legal assistance to eligible individuals and families facing housing instability. The program aims to keep people safely housed and reduce the risk of homelessness throughout the community by helping residents address legal challenges that could lead to eviction.

“We are very excited to partner with Legal Aid of West Virginia on this important project,” said Mayor Tom Joyce. “Access to legal assistance can make a critical difference for families facing housing crises, and this investment reflects our commitment to preventing homelessness in Wood County.”

Legal Aid of West Virginia has a long history of providing legal services to vulnerable populations across the state, the organization said in a news release. Through this partnership, Legal Aid will expand access to legal representation and advocacy for residents at risk of losing their housing.

“I’ve seen significant progress in housing stability efforts across our community since starting here three years ago, but there is still important work ahead,” John A. Williams, supervising attorney for Legal Aid’s Parkersburg Office, said. “This partnership will help us build on that momentum and continue providing critical support to individuals and families facing housing instability in Wood County.”

Joyce presented a ceremonial check to Legal Aid on Monday.

The HOME-ARP program addresses the housing needs of individuals and families experiencing homelessness, at risk of homelessness, or facing other housing-related challenges. The City of Parkersburg/Wood County HOME Consortium remains committed to investing these resources in programs that strengthen the community and help residents maintain safe, stable housing.

Legal Aid of West Virginia is a nonprofit law firm that provides free civil legal services to low-income West Virginians and operates 12 offices across the state and serves every county in West Virginia, helping individuals and families address issues involving housing, family law, public benefits, consumer protection, and other barriers to justice.

To apply for help, access free resources or learn more about renter’s rights in West Virginia, call 866-255-4370 or go to www.legalaidwv.org

HOME Consortium administers federal HOME Investment Partnerships Program funding to support affordable housing initiatives and community development activities that benefit low- and moderate-income residents throughout the region. Through partnerships with local organizations and service providers, the Consortium promotes expanded housing opportunities, prevents homelessness, and improves the quality of life for residents.