Chance awarded by state bar association for homeless advocacy

by BBJ Staff
Filed on 03. Jul, 2012 in People

Whatcom County homeless-rights advocate Page Chance has been given the Access to Justice Advocacy Award by the Washington State Bar Association.

The bar’s Access to Justice Board recognized her “tireless efforts on behalf of low-income and vulnerable people,” and her “inspirational and enduring commitment to equal justice for all,” according to a press release.

Chance has worked since August 2007 as a homeless disability benefits advocate for LAW Advocates, an organization of Whatcom County attorneys who volunteer their time to give civil legal aid to low-income residents.

During her time with the organization, Chance has provided help, including information and referrals, to more than 100 people each year.

Last year, she helped nearly 40 people complete disability benefits applications. Along with community partners, Chance also helped bring 15 people out of homelessness.

Whatcom County attorneys awarded for support of equal justice 

LAW Advocates commended the Whatcom County legal community for receiving the Rainer Cup for contributions to the 2011 Campaign for Equal Justice, which supports civil legal aid in Washington state. This is the second year in a row the county has won the award.

“Civil legal aid is a critical service in our community, particularly during these difficult economic times,” said Terra Nevitt, LAW Advocates’ executive director, in a press release. “These services help victims of domestic abuse to protect themselves and their children from violence, assist low-income renters facing eviction and homelessness, counsel seniors and terminally ill individuals needing estate planning advice and many others.”

Read more about: Awards, fundraisers, Law, People, Poverty, Whatcom County