Arlington Community Foundation granted $250,000 to two legal aid nonprofits | The Locally Times
Just Neighbors and the Legal Aid Justice Center will receive $125,000 each to provide immigration legal counsel.
The Arlington Community Foundation (ACF) announced on June 12, 2026, that it granted $250,000 to fund legal services for immigrant residents. The foundation split the funds equally, providing $125,000 to Just Neighbors and $125,000 to the Legal Aid Justice Center. ## Use of Funds The grant supports three specific legal services. According to the June 12 announcement, the organizations will provide information regarding legal rights, direct counsel for immigration proceedings, and assistance with documentation for families preparing for potential detention or separation. The foundation maintains a resource list on its website categorized by public safety, Arlington Public Schools (APS) information, and general county resources. ## Funding Origins and Scope The $250,000 grant comes from private funds held by the Arlington Community Foundation. The foundation’s records do not specify whether the money originated from a general endowment or a specific emergency fund. Additionally, the foundation did not release data regarding the total number of individuals expected to receive services through this grant. ## Historical Context The foundation previously managed the 'Arlington’s Guarantee' pilot program, which ran from 2021 to 2023. That program provided 200 households with $500 per month for 18 months, including 25 undocumented heads of households. During the pandemic, the ACF distributed more than $1 million to nonprofit organizations. ## Resident Impact The $250,000 grant does not utilize tax dollars or affect the Arlington Public Schools budget. Residents seeking these services can contact the Legal Aid Justice Center or Just Neighbors directly. ## Key Questions **How will the $250,000 be divided between the organizations?** The Arlington Community Foundation is splitting the funds equally, with both Just Neighbors and the Legal Aid Justice Center receiving $125,000 each. **Does this grant affect my property taxes?** No. The funding comes from the private Arlington Community Foundation and does not utilize public tax revenue or county budget funds. **What services will these nonprofits provide with the money?** The organizations will provide legal counsel for immigration proceedings, offer information on constitutional rights, and help families prepare legal documents for potential detention or separation.