Dear Friends,
I am proud to share the work and support of so many members of our Granite State community as we continue to champion civil legal aid. 2024 was a banner year for the NH Campaign for Legal Services. We raised over $600,000 and helped people receive the legal services they needed.
603 Legal Aid (603LA) and New Hampshire Legal Assistance (NHLA) work alongside clients when they are facing housing loss, domestic violence, consumer debt, denial of public benefits, and numerous other challenges. This is deeply meaningful and necessary work.
Recently, 603LA and NHLA collaborated to help Gregory, a 63-year-old disabled veteran living alone in an apartment in Manchester. Gregory called 603LA in May for help with an eviction. Although he had found a new shelter with the help of a veteran’s organization, he was still very anxious about attending his eviction hearing. Gregory needed to maintain his current apartment for a few weeks, so he could move his personal belongings to storage for safekeeping. He also hoped to avoid an eviction judgment so there would be fewer hassles renting in the future.
Gregory called 603LA who provided him with advice and motions to dismiss the eviction case. 603LA urged Gregory to seek an attorney from NHLA at one of NHLA’s courthouse-based eviction defense clinics and suggested that the attorney would try to help him negotiate with his landlord.
Gregory connected with NHLA attorneys Marta Hurgin and Sofia Hyatt at the courthouse. After conferring with Gregory, listening to his story and learning what his goals were, they approached Gregory’s landlord and quickly reached an agreement that resolved the issue. Gregory’s landlord seemed quite satisfied with the outcome and promised to give Gregory a great reference.
Gregory told 603LA: “I so appreciate the time you’ve spent with me. I couldn’t have done this without your help and guidance.” Testimonials like these highlight the profound impact of our mission and the essential part you play. Your generosity allows us to make a real difference in a critical moment in someone’s life.
Thank you to our generous donors, which included law firms, businesses, and individuals who supported our work throughout the year. You are our partners in providing legal aid to New Hampshire.
Megan E. Hilson
Chair, Campaign Leadership Council
Shareholder, Sheehan Phinney
