The Illinois Equal Justice Foundation (IEJF) aims to improve access to justice for all Illinois residents, particularly those of low income who cannot afford legal representation. It provides funding to nonprofit organizations that offer free legal services, including advice, consultations, and representation, as well as mediation services to individuals facing legal challenges such as eviction.
Eviction Help Illinois Grants target the growing housing and eviction crisis exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on supporting nonprofit organizations that deliver free legal help and information to those confronting eviction and housing instability. The grants aim to enhance access to civil legal assistance and mediation services for low-income Illinois residents, emphasizing support in suburban Cook County and downstate areas. Through these grants, IEJF sponsors two primary categories: Civil Legal Assistance and Mediation Services. Civil Legal Assistance Grants are designated for legal advice, consultations, and representation in eviction and housing matters, alongside online legal information and triage services. Mediation Services Grants focus on offering an impartial mediator to assist in dispute resolutions, targeting both new and existing dispute resolution centers and supporting mediator training to expand the state’s capacity in addressing the eviction crisis.