As a nonprofit law firm that helps people who are unable to afford an attorney when their basic needs like housing, food, healthcare, safety, and income, are at stake, Legal Services of the Hudson Valley (LSHV) is more important now than ever before.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, LSHV has been a lifeline to those who have been affected by the crisis, especially those already living on the edge of poverty and instability. Families who were just getting by are now facing unemployment, potential loss of housing, food insecurity, increased risk of domestic violence, and – for some – the urgent need for a will or healthcare proxy to make medical decisions. These free legal services are always essential, and especially now during the pandemic. All LSHV staff are currently working remotely. While not available for in-person meetings, clients can reach LSHV by phone 877-574-8529 or through their website www.lshv.org.

Staff members are creating Know Your Rights videos, which can be found on LSHV’s YouTube channel or at lshv.org Covid-19. Videos include:

• Unemployment insurance benefits in COVID-19
• What to know if you are having trouble making your mortgage payments
• Pending loss mitigation application or active trial payment plan
• Rent recalculation during COVID-19
• Veterans and Military Families Advocacy Project & Tips for Veterans during COVID19.

Additionally, the courts in New York remain open for emergency cases and LSHV is on the frontlines in advocating for clients in matters including housing, domestic violence, advanced planning, employment, and income maintenance and consumer law. An influx of clients is expected when the moratoriums on evictions and foreclosures are lifted.