The DC Bar Foundation focuses on awarding grants to DC-based 501(c)3 non-profit organizations dedicated to providing free civil legal aid to low-income residents in Washington, DC. Their mission emphasizes access to justice for the under-served through funding initiatives that support legal representation and aid.
The General Support Grants, formally known as the DC Legal Services Grants Program, has been a cornerstone of the DC Bar Foundation's efforts since 1978, distributing over $21 million to support DC legal aid providers. These annual grants provide unrestricted funds to cover essential overhead costs, such as rent and client record databases, expenses that are often not met by other funding. This initiative is powered by private contributions and revenue from the IOLTA program, reflecting the Foundation's commitment to sustain the operations of legal aid providers and ensure access to justice for all District residents.