Battling Housing Discrimination

What happens when someone with a disability is harassed and discriminated against in the place they call home?

Randy is an elderly man who needs an electronic scooter to get around. However, his landlord refused to allow him to use his scooter at his rental complex. Unable to use a ramp to safely get to his unit on the second floor, he was instead forced to use a cane. The property manager believed Randy was too old to live at the property and further harassed him by making comments suggesting he needed to be somewhere with 24 hour care.  We suspected that Randy wasn't the only one being discriminated against. Our community partner, Project Sentinel, sent in people of varying demographics as potential renters. Not only was the landlord refusing to allow wheelchairs on the property, but families with children were also being turned away and denied housing. 

Law Foundation attorneys filed a lawsuit against the property on Randy's behalf, ultimately settling the case. The property owners agreed to pay monetary damages and demote the manager to a non-leadership role. Additionally, the property owners agreed to allow for future fair housing testing, ensuring that no one else is treated to the kind of discrimination Randy endured. 

Tackling Systemic Inequalities in Silicon Valley

With Law Foundation attorneys along with other housing advocates on hand calling for action, the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors moved forward last month with a significant anti-discrimination measure that will provide much needed protection for low-income households in Santa Clara County. 

Though our housing crisis offers limited options for low-income families, many landlords refuse to rent to recipients of rental assistance, including holders of federally-subsidized Section 8 vouchers. This legal form of discrimination prevents thousands from securing safe, stable housing despite their ability to pay the rent.

Putting an end to this harmful practice, the Board of Supervisors approved an ordinance that makes sure landlords cannot discriminate against tenants who receive rental assistance. We thank the Supervisors who voted in favor of this vital effort to address Silicon Valley's housing crisis, including President of the Board Dave Cortese, Supervisor Joe Simitian, Supervisor Cindy Chavez, and Supervisor Ken Yeager

Celebrating Our Kindhearted Heroes!

March 1st marked the beginning of Social Work Month, a time dedicated to honoring social workers for their tenacity in confronting some of the most challenging issues facing families and individuals.

We are grateful to have social workers on our team to give professional insight into the mental, emotional, and physical needs of some of our most vulnerable clients.

"My favorite part about being a social worker at the Law Foundation is getting to work with immigrant children. I get to hear their stories and support them through their legal proceedings."

- Cynthia Valenzuela

"I really enjoy getting to advocate for kids, giving voice to the voiceless. I feel like I'm making a meaningful impact in the lives of the kids we serve."

- Gustavo Rangel

Follow us on Facebook to meet our social workers as we highlight a few from the team throughout the month!