As we reflect on the close of another year, we are filled with gratitude for the incredible support and unwavering commitment of our community. This year, we’ve witnessed firsthand the profound impact of our collective efforts, as together, we’ve empowered individuals, supported families, and created lasting change in our Commonwealth. We are excited to share the legislative strides we’ve made, the successes that have defined this year. Your generosity has been a vital force in every step forward, and we are honored to share this journey with you.

Thanks in part to MLRI’s advocacy — alongside our community partners — this year, Massachusetts is:

• Launching an Access to Counsel pilot program: the Governor signed the FY25 budget including $2.5 million to launch an Access to Counsel pilot program to provide lawyers for low-income tenants facing eviction. More than 240 legal, housing, healthcare, and faith organizations came together to support enquiry and fairness for those facing eviction.
• Increasing monthly cash assistance grants: the state legislature increased the monthly cash assistance grants for extremely low income families for the fourth consecutive year, marking a historic step forward for families in Deep Poverty. This increase is a victory for the Lift Our Kids Coalition, with 160 members across the Commonwealth.
• Allowing renters to petition to seal eviction records: the Governor signed the Affordable Homes Act which allows for Massachusetts renters to be able to petition a court to seal their eviction record in certain circumstances. Starting in May 2025, this bill will help countless individuals secure stable living conditions.
• Expanding the definition of abuse: the Governor signed An Act to Prevent Abuse and Exploitation into law, expanding the definition of domestic abuse to include coercive control, and subsequently outlawed revenge porn, a form of coercive control. Massachusetts now becomes the seventh state in the nation to recognize coercive control as a harmful form of domestic abuse.
• Limiting MassHealth’s estate recovery practices: An Act to Improve Quality and Oversight of Long Term Care was passed, limiting MassHealth’s overly aggressive estate recovery practices and bringing Massachusetts in line with the majority of other states. The Act is a victory for the elderly and people with disabilities.

Each of these successes cements the role of legal aid in the fight for justice in Massachusetts.  From our founding in 1968 through 2024, we have a track record of success. We know how to fight, and we know how to win. And we do not give up.

As we continue to fight these battles in 2025, your support is more critical than ever. Every donation enables us to hold the line against injustice and push for the changes that ensure everyone has the opportunity to thrive and succeed. Together, we can create lasting impact and bring justice to those who need it most. 

Join our cause by supporting MLRI today! By choosing to make a 100% tax-deductible gift in 2024, you will enable MLRI to reshape policies, transform lives, and build a brighter future for all.