Hope, Dignity, and Justice for All Iowans

Many Iowans are one hardship away from losing their homes, safety, or income.

Domestic violence, job loss, and rising living costs can quickly lead to legal crises.

For over 45 years, we’ve provided legal help and advocacy to those who need it most.

Our vision: an Iowa where legal help is available to all, regardless of income.

“Iowa Legal Aid was key to getting me knowledge and letting me know my rights.”

Matt Chapman

Client, Board Member

Iowa Legal Aid by the Numbers

2025

people impacted

cases closed

Families Helped with Income Issues

Veterans Helped

Seniors Supported

Children Advocated for

Domestic Violence Survivors Aided

People Facing Eviction

People with Disabilities Helped

%

of Clients were Women

Clients were Single Mothers

in client benefits secured

Client Stories

What’s at stake when you can’t afford legal help? Our clients have faced problems like homelessness, threats to their safety, and loss of income.

From Crisis to Stability

Iowa Legal Aid was appointed to represent Ashley after her children were removed due to substance abuse.

Breaking the Cycle

Tammy first connected with Iowa Legal Aid through the Community Schools Project for help with employment.

Protecting What Matters Most

Molly faced a challenge common to many seniors: her husband’s health was failing, and he needed long-term care.

From Sleepless Nights to Peace of Mind

Dennis and Pricilla moved to western Iowa from California in 2007, buying a home before their California house sold.

Iowa Legal Aid Helps Resolve Roof and Insurance Dispute After Derecho

[et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_text] Iowa Legal Aid assisted “Michael,” an Iowa homeowner whose roof was severely damaged during the 2020 Iowa derecho, leading to a...

Iowa Legal Aid Helps Sioux City Resident Keep Critical Disability Benefits

Iowa Legal Aid represented “Ryan,” a man with a serious mental illness who has received social security income (SSI) since childhood. Ryan’s mother, “Kristan,” serves...
mother with children in a sunny field

A Path to Safety for Natasha and Her Five Children

Iowa Legal Aid represented Natasha, a domestic abuse survivor, and her five children through our Waterloo Regional Office as she sought to extend a domestic abuse...

Strengthening Our Communities

Our services benefit more than just individual clients. By preventing homelessness and other hardships, we reduce spending on social services.

With the right legal help, more Iowans can work, support their families, and contribute to our communities.

$4.30 is generated in economic impact for every $1 of legal aid funding.

person comforting someone
people working

Expanding Our Reach

Our impact grows through collaboration. We work closely with community organizations, training them to recognize legal issues and refer people our way. In 2024, this outreach included:

  • 1,325 in-person education & outreach events
  • 160 virtual events
  • 22,130 people reached
  • $1,073,796 in pro bono services from volunteer lawyers

There’s still more work to do.

While we help tens of thousands, we’re limited by funding. Each year, we have to turn away thousands of eligible applicants. Your support helps bridge this gap, giving more people access to justice.

Together, we can create an Iowa where everyone has a voice in the legal system.