About the Nonprofit
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Senior Citizens' Legal Services (SCLS) provides free legal services in order to defend the right of the elderly to quality health care, to protection from abuse and exploitation, and to be free of discrimination on the basis of age or disability.
SCLS works to ensure protection, care and honor for elders in Santa Cruz and San Benito Counties. Since 1972 we have offered seniors, especially those of low or fixed-income, free legal services including direct representation in specialized areas of law that affect their ability to live decent lives. The gratitude frequently expressed is priceless. "My problem...was overwhelming and stressful. I felt violated...I am very impressed how my case was handled and so thankful funds were reimbursed."
After our founding in 1972, we became a model for senior legal aid offices nationwide. Building onto our strong 50 year foundation, we have recently grown to meet the increased needs of vulnerable, isolated, & at risk seniors -- more than doubling our agency budget & increasing service numbers by 41.7%. SCLS has won many cases over the years that have saved or recovered millions of dollars & provided invaluable non-monetary awards, such as:
• Helped cancer patient maintain housing 6 months beyond valid eviction date;
• Submitted brief to 6th District Court of Appeals and beat unfair rent increase
for entire mobile home park;
• Established fault of loan servicer and restored reverse mortgage loan from
default status to active status.
