“The Changemaker Grant has allowed us to provide security deposits for numerous individuals and families, helping them secure housing quickly and avoid homelessness,” explains Staff Attorney at Charleston Pro Bono Mary Templeton. “Instead of struggling to pay for temporary accommodations or relying on family, our clients only need to cover the first month's rent, which makes a crucial difference in their journey to stability.”
-Staff Attorney at Charleston Pro Bono Mary Templeton
Charleston Pro Bono Legal Services serves the vital legal needs of the Charleston’s ALICE® population by providing aid, representation and an array of legal services that enable access to the protection and benefits of our legal system.
One of the ways Charleston Pro Bono Legal Services is committed to transforming lives in Charleston is offering essential legal assistance to individuals and families facing eviction. In South Carolina, where an eviction can leave a lasting mark on one’s record, their work is crucial in preventing homelessness and fostering stability within the community.
This year, Charleston Pro Bono received two separate Trident United Way Changemaker Grants. The first grant specifically targets services for the ALICE® population, enhancing their capacity to assist those facing housing challenges. With TUW’s support, Charleston Pro Bono has expanded their outreach, enabling them to help even more individuals and families in need.
In the often-overwhelming landscape of housing insecurity, one story stands out to Housing Court Coordinator Natalie Sorrem—a powerful testament to the importance of support in overcoming adversity. She reflects on the journey of a single mother with five children who faced the looming threat of eviction.
"This client came to us with a government voucher that helps cover a portion of her rent," Natalie recounts. "But if the eviction went through, that voucher would be terminated. Losing it would mean not just losing her home, but also a crucial lifeline for her family."
Government vouchers play a significant role in ensuring affordable housing for low-income families. They adjust based on income, allowing individuals to secure housing that aligns with their financial situation. For this mother, the potential loss of her voucher meant an uncertain future for her and her children.
"The importance of that voucher cannot be overstated," Natalie explains. "It’s critical for managing her rent and sustaining her housing. Facing eviction meant that everything she had worked for could be taken away in an instant."
Fortunately, Charleston Pro Bono stepped in to provide the necessary assistance. Their Housing Team represented her in Housing Court and negotiated a settlement that would keep an eviction off of her record and keep her voucher intact. They were then able to use the Changemaker Grant funds for her security deposit, ensuring a smooth transition into safe, affordable housing. “Knowing that her children would have a safe place to stay was incredibly rewarding for all of us.”