In 2023, the Legal Services Corporation (LSC) continued to play a pivotal role in ensuring access to justice for low-income Americans across the country. The recently released LSC Annual Report and 2023 By the Numbers Report provide key insights into the impact of LSC-funded organizations, including New Mexico Legal Aid (NMLA). These reports capture both the challenges and triumphs of delivering free legal services to underserved communities and highlight the essential work of legal aid organizations like NMLA.

2023 LSC Annual Report Highlights

The Annual Report reflects the tireless efforts of LSC and its 132 grantee organizations to provide free civil legal aid to low-income individuals and families nationwide. Notable highlights include:

• $540 million in federal funding was allocated to LSC in 2023, helping organizations across the country deliver critical services.
• LSC grantees, including NMLA, were instrumental in assisting individuals with legal issues related to housing, family law, domestic violence, consumer protection, and disaster relief.
• LSC’s Justice Gap Study emphasized the growing need for legal services, with 92% of low-income Americans receiving inadequate or no legal help for their civil legal needs.
• The report also highlights the role of pro bono partnerships, which are crucial in extending the reach of legal services in areas where resources are limited.

2023 By the Numbers Report

The By the Numbers Report offers a deeper dive into the key statistics that underscore the vast reach and impact of LSC-funded programs in 2023. Some of the key numbers include:

• 1.6 million people served by LSC grantees in 2023.
• 544,000 cases closed by legal aid organizations, addressing critical legal issues that low-income individuals and families face every day.
• Of these cases, 27% addressed housing issues, including evictions and foreclosures, demonstrating the growing need for housing stability assistance.
• 71% of clients served were women, and a significant number of clients were individuals with disabilities, seniors, and veterans, highlighting the importance of legal aid in protecting vulnerable populations.

The Impact on NMLA

As an LSC grantee, NMLA is proud to contribute to these national efforts to close the justice gap. The funding provided by LSC allows NMLA to deliver essential legal services across New Mexico, particularly in areas of housing stability, family law, consumer protection, and disaster relief. In 2023, NMLA helped thousands of New Mexicans navigate legal challenges and secure access to justice.

The need for free legal services continues to grow, and reports like these are a reminder of the vital role legal aid organizations play in strengthening communities. With the support of LSC, NMLA will continue its mission to provide high-quality legal assistance to those who need it most.

For more information and to access the full reports, visit the LSC website:

• LSC Annual Report
• 2023 By the Numbers Report

Together, we are making a difference, one case at a time!