In a move to tackle Akron's high eviction rate, a new Right to Counsel program is set to launch through a partnership involving the City of Akron, United Way of Summit & Medina, and Community Legal Aid. Announced yesterday, the pilot program aims to provide legal representation and support services to residents facing eviction, with the hope of easing the strain on both tenants and landlords. Funded by an initial grant of $750,000 spread over the next three years, this initiative is expected to begin in September 2025. Akron officials describe the project as a targeted measure to protect the city's most vulnerable population from homelessness and the disruptive effects of eviction.
The program's qualification kicks in for a tenant who finds themselves 7 days away from an eviction showdown. With a focus on low-income individuals, families with children, and the elderly, the initiative prioritizes applicants who are living at 100% of the poverty threshold. "The Right to Counsel Program will undoubtedly help prevent some of our residents from experiencing homelessness," Mayor Shammas Malik told Akron news. The program's layered approach aims not only to combat eviction but also to streamline the transition to new housing if needed.
An essential aspect of the program is the dissemination of information. When the Court issues a notice of eviction, it will be accompanied by guidelines directing tenants on how to seek assistance through the program. If the eligibility requirements are met, Community Legal Aid will assign a legal professional to the case, and managing attorneys, attorneys, and paralegals are rostered for this task. For those who do not qualify, Community Legal Aid plans to offer as much assistance as possible and make connections to other supportive services.
Aside from legal aid, United Way Summit & Medina is set to offer coordination services, including some rental assistance efforts. "Housing is a critical component to the stability of Akron's children, families and seniors," interim president & CEO of United Way of Summit & Medina, Annie McFadden, said according to the official announcement. She emphasized the importance of the program, especially amid potential funding cuts from state and federal levels, underscoring the project as a collaborative community triumph.
