By Carol M. Sainthilaire, Executive Director of The Waterfront Project.
As the nation grapples with an unprecedented surge in evictions, one city is defying the trend: Philadelphia. According to a recent article in The Wall Street Journal, Philadelphia’s success in keeping eviction rates low can be largely attributed to its groundbreaking Right to Counsel program, which ensures that low-income tenants have access to legal representation when facing eviction. This initiative is a model of how proactive policy can protect vulnerable renters and prevent homelessness, and it serves as a powerful example of what could be achieved here in New Jersey.
The Power of Legal Representation
The Right to Counsel program in Philadelphia is rooted in a simple yet profound idea: everyone, regardless of income, deserves a fair chance in court. Before the program was introduced, tenants without legal representation were at a severe disadvantage in eviction proceedings, often losing their homes due to a lack of understanding of their rights or the complexities of the legal system. The data is clear; tenants with legal representation are far more likely to avoid eviction, maintain stable housing, and negotiate fair terms with their landlords.
Since Philadelphia implemented its Right to Counsel program, eviction rates have plummeted. The city has become a beacon of hope amid a national housing crisis, proving that with the right policies in place, it is possible to protect renters and prevent the devastating consequences of eviction.
Why New Jersey Needs a Right to Counsel Program
Here in New Jersey, we are witnessing a similar eviction crisis. The end of pandemic-era protections has led to a surge in eviction filings, and without the necessary safeguards, many of our state’s most vulnerable residents are at risk of losing their homes. At The Waterfront Project, we see the heartbreaking impact of evictions every day—families torn apart, children forced to change schools, and individuals left with no place to turn.
We believe that New Jersey can and should follow Philadelphia’s lead by implementing a statewide Right to Counsel program. Such a program would ensure that tenants facing eviction have access to the legal representation they need to stay in their homes. It would level the playing field in eviction court and give tenants the best possible chance to protect their housing rights.
Our Work at The Waterfront Project
The Waterfront Project is dedicated to providing free legal representation, housing counseling, and advocacy for tenants at risk of eviction. Our team works tirelessly to ensure that every person facing eviction has a voice in court and that their rights are protected. We know that legal representation can be the difference between losing a home and securing a stable future, and we are committed to expanding our services to reach as many people as possible.
However, the demand for our services far exceeds the resources currently available. While we receive some government funding, it is not enough to meet the growing needs of our community. We rely on the generosity of our supporters to continue this vital work and to fight for the policies that will create lasting change.
A Call to Action
We believe that every tenant in New Jersey deserves the same protections that have made such a difference in Philadelphia. That’s why we are calling on lawmakers to advocate for a Right to Counsel program here in our state. By ensuring that all tenants have access to legal representation, we can prevent evictions, reduce homelessness, and build stronger, more stable communities.
But we cannot do this alone. We need your help to continue providing the legal services and advocacy that are so desperately needed. Please consider making a donation to The Waterfront Project today. Your support will enable us to fight for tenants’ rights, expand our services, and push for the policies that will make a real difference in the lives of New Jersey residents.
Together, we can create a future where everyone has the security of a stable home and the protection of their legal rights. Join us in this fight—advocate for Right to Counsel, and support The Waterfront Project with a donation today.
Donate Now to help us continue our work and advocate for the policies that will protect tenants and prevent evictions across New Jersey. Every contribution brings us one step closer to a future where everyone has access to safe, stable housing.
Original article: https://www.wsj.com/real-estate/why-philadelphia-is-bucking-a-nationwide-surge-in-evictions-25df7ba7