Tzedek DC Receives $1M Gift from MacKenzie Scott’s Yield Giving

Today, MacKenzie Scott’s Yield Giving announced that Tzedek DC has received a $1 million gift as one of the Yield Giving Open Call’s awardees for organizations working with people and in places experiencing the greatest need in the United States.

This gift, the largest unrestricted donation that Tzedek DC has ever received, will support our mission of safeguarding the legal rights and financial health of DC residents with low incomes facing the often-devastating consequences of debt collection and credit-related obstacles. Tzedek DC carries out our mission as anti-racism work in response to the massive racial wealth gaps in DC and nationwide. We seek to serve and empower our client base, which is comprised of 90% Black residents, 60% women, and 25% disabled community members. Since 2017, Tzedek DC has served over 3,000 client households in legal and financial counseling matters and catalyzed systemic reforms benefiting hundreds of thousands of DC residents. 

“Tzedek DC is grateful for this extraordinary gift, which will deepen our ability to expand access to justice for DC residents, through our direct services, systemic reform work, and multi-lingual community education and outreach programs,” said Founding President & Director-Counsel Ariel Levinson-Waldman. 

In March 2023, Yield Giving launched an Open Call for community-led, community-focused organizations whose explicit purpose is to enable individuals and families to achieve substantive improvement in their well-being through foundational resources. 

The Open Call received 6,353 applications and initially planned for 250 awards of $1 million each. In the Fall of 2023, organizations top-rated by their peers advanced to a second round of review by an external Evaluation Panel recruited for experience relevant to this cause and underwent a final round of due diligence. In light of the incredible work of these organizations, as judged by their peers and external panelists, the donor team decided to expand the awardee pool and the award amount. 

"We are excited that our partnership with Yield Giving has resonated with so many organizations," said Cecilia Conrad, CEO of Lever for Change, which helps donors find and fund bold solutions to the world’s biggest problems. "In a world teeming with potential and talent, the Open Call has given us an opportunity to identify, uplift, and empower transformative organizations that often remain unseen.” 

About Tzedek DC 

Tzedek DC’s name is drawn from the ancient Jewish teaching “Tzedek, tzedek tirdof,” or “Justice, justice you shall pursue.” Headquartered at the University of the District of Columbia David A. Clarke School of Law, Tzedek DC’s mission is to safeguard the legal rights and financial health of DC residents with lower incomes facing the often-devastating consequences of debt collection and credit-related obstacles. This mission is carried out as anti-racism work in response to the massive wealth gaps tracking race in DC and nationwide. Tzedek DC seeks to serve and empower its client base, which is comprised of 90% Black folks, 60% women, and 25% disabled community members. Our strategic approach combines three synergistic activities: (i) free direct services—legal representation and advice and financial counseling; (ii) working in coalition to make systemic change; and (iii) providing bilingual community legal education on debt collection, identity theft, and credit management. Since 2017, Tzedek DC has served over 3,000 client households in legal matters and catalyzed systemic reforms benefiting hundreds of thousands of DC residents. To learn more, visit www.tzedekdc.org.

About Yield Giving 

Established by MacKenzie Scott to share a financial fortune created through the effort of countless people, Yield Giving is named after a belief in adding value by giving up control. To date, Yield’s network of staff and advisors has yielded over $16,500,000,000 to 1,900+ non-profit teams to use as they see fit for the benefit of others. To learn more, visit www.yieldgiving.com. 

About Lever for Change 

Lever for Change connects donors with bold solutions to the world’s biggest problems—including issues like racial inequity, gender inequality, lack of access to economic opportunity, and climate change. Using an inclusive, equitable model and due diligence process, Lever for Change creates customized challenges and other tailored funding opportunities. Top-ranked teams and challenge finalists become members of the Bold Solutions Network—a growing global network that helps secure additional funding, amplify members’ impact, and accelerate social change. Founded in 2019 as a nonprofit affiliate of the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, Lever for Change has influenced over $1.7 billion in grants to date and provided support to more than 145 organizations. More information on the Yield Giving Open Call and other initiatives can be found at www.leverforchange.org.

Get Free Tax Preparation Help!

We are excited to say that March 15 is VITA Awareness Day!

We want to let everyone know about the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and explain how—and where—you can take advantage of this fantastic program that can help so many people in our DC community.

VITA is a national government program that partners with local organizations to offer free tax preparation services to individuals and families with limited incomes, persons with disabilities, and non-English speaking taxpayers. This program allows everyone to get reliable and trusted help for income tax filing. So even if you can’t afford to pay a private tax preparer, you can still get expert help for filling out those confusing tax forms, and get the best possible refund including claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit.

Please visit our Tzedek DC website to find a list of local VITA sites where you can get your taxes done for free, in many different languages, in the DMV area. Additionally, if you are a senior seeking assistance, you can visit this link for Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs.

Disclaimer: Before scheduling an appointment or walking into a clinic, please make sure you meet the eligibility criteria and regularly check the IRS website for updates.

Ford Foundation and Tzedek DC Renew Partnership in Support of Disability Justice

Tzedek DC is honored to receive a two-year grant of $200,000 from the Ford Foundation to support the Tzedek DC Disabilities Community Project, covering 2024-2026. This represents the second such grant of this partnership following Ford’s initial 2021-2023 grant to Tzedek DC.

Led and staffed principally by disabled team members, the Disabilities Community Project at Tzedek DC is designed to meet the specialized needs of disabled people in issues that too often are unaddressed for this community, namely debt, credit, and consumer protection. The Disabilities Community Project provides direct representation of disabled DC residents, conducts community education and outreach throughout DC, and engages in systemic advocacy, all with a disability justice lens that elevates the requirements and perspectives of disabled people. The project is under the leadership of Naji Mujahid Fenwick, a disabled attorney at Tzedek DC. Recent areas of systemic focus have included social security disability benefits and medical debt.

This grant award comes from the Ford Foundation’s path-breaking Disability Rights Program, in recognition of the fact that “people with disabilities continue to face unfair policies that systematize poverty and persistent prejudice that has segregated them from movements and society.” Moreover, individuals with disabilities experience unique challenges within the legal system and when facing consumer protection and financial problems.

Tzedek DC’s Director Ariel Levinson-Waldman said, “We are especially appreciative of this grant. Despite the clear need, no other DC organizations (and very few nationally) focus specifically on individuals with disabilities who face debt-related problems. We are grateful to the Ford Foundation for its renewed vote of confidence in the ability of Tzedek DC’s Disabilities Community Project to continue to fill that gap. We are excited to grow and deepen the work of our colleagues on the project by Staff Attorney Naji Mujahid Fenwick, Communications Manager Caitlyn Hickman, and colleagues.”

About Ford Foundation

Established in 1936, the Ford Foundation has sought to reduce poverty and injustice, strengthen democratic values, promote international cooperation, and advance human achievement. The Foundation’s Disability Rights Program rests on the premise that to build a world where everyone is equal, we need to recognize how disability interconnects with the issues of social justice and follow the lead of the individuals at the center of the fight. By centering intersectionality and the voices of those most marginalized—from people of color and queer to immigrants and indigenous people—disability justice encourages us to see how society’s diverse systems of oppression reinforce each other and affect every member of the disability community.

About Tzedek DC

Tzedek DC’s mission is to safeguard the legal rights and financial health of DC residents with lower incomes facing the often devastating consequences of debt collection and credit-related obstacles. This mission is carried out as anti-racism work in response to the massive wealth gaps tracking race in DC and nationwide. Tzedek DC serves a client base of 95% BIPOC, 66% women, and 25% disabled community members. Our strategic approach combines three synergistic activities: (i) free legal and financial counseling services; (ii) working in coalition to make systemic change; and (iii) providing community education on debt collection, identity theft, and credit management. Since 2017, Tzedek DC has served over 3,000 client households in legal and financial counseling matters and helped catalyze systemic reforms benefiting hundreds of thousands of DC residents.

Tzedek DC’s Clean Hands Work Featured In Mother Jones Article

Tzedek DC’s work with coalition partners to reform DC’s Clean Hands law was recently featured in a Mother Jones article on how different state and local taxation policies punish low-income residents.

The piece discusses how DC’s Clean Hands law punishes residents with low incomes who owe more than $100 to the District by preventing them from obtaining occupational and business licenses.

“That's nearly one in five DC workers who must comply with this law or not be able to work in their chosen profession,” said A.J. Huber, a senior staff attorney at Tzedek DC. “That includes barbers, cosmetologists, nurses, social workers, plumbers, HVAC cleaners, food vendors, tattoo artists, and dozens of other, mostly blue-collar occupations.”

The article also highlights Tzedek DC’s role in reforming the Clean Hands law both in the past and in the present. Mother Jones mentions how Tzedek DC’s 2021 report and years of pushing for legislative change led to the elimination of the Clean Hands requirement for driver’s license renewals in 2022.

The article also mentions Tzedek DC’s recent 2023 Locked Out report on the need to eliminate occupational and business licenses from the Clean Hands requirement and the ongoing work by Tzedek DC and coalition partners to create changes to the Clean Hands law.

“I think a lot of people when they just hear about the issue abstractly think, ‘Oh, it's just a bunch of people who don't want to pay their bills,’” Huber said. “And that's really not what it is. It’s people who are in tough financial circumstances and whose circumstances are becoming even tougher because of this law.”

New Year's Resolution for 2024: Check My Credit Reports

New Year's resolutions often focus on personal improvement, health, and achieving financial goals. However, another important resolution should be to regularly check your credit reports! Doing so can help you get your finances on track for the coming year. So be sure to put reviewing your credit reports at the top of your list of New Year's resolutions to ensure a successful year ahead.

The good news is that 2024 may be the best year ever for checking credit reports. This is because Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion all recently announced that from now on, you can access your credit reports for free once a week (it used to be only once a year!). This is a game changer for everyone who cares about their credit.

Whether you want to track your credit and financial health, increase your credit scores, monitor and pay off outstanding debts, or make sure your credit report is free of any errors or inaccuracies that could lower your credit scores, checking your credit report regularly is ESSENTIAL. 

How to Check Your Credit Reports

Online

Visit annualcreditreport.com to access your free weekly credit reports. This is the only website authorized by the federal government to provide this service. If you come across another site that promises a free credit report, it could be a scam and should be reported to the FTC’s fraud report site.  

Once on the website, click on “Request Your Free Credit Reports.” Then click on “Request Your Credit Reports” to fill out the form. Next, pick out which reports you want from one or all three credit bureaus. Before you can access your credit report, you will need to answer questions to verify your identity. This is done to prevent identity theft. 

After you gain access to your credit reports, be sure to save or print your credit report for your records. You can also access your credit reports by phone or mail using the steps below.

By Phone

Call 1-877-322-8228 and request that your credit report be physically mailed to your home.  

By Mail

Complete the Annual Credit Report Request Form and mail it to:

Annual Credit Report Request Service
PO Box 105281
Atlanta, GA 30348-5281.

If you need visual assistance, a credit report can also be accessed in Braille, large print, and audio formats.

What to Do if You Find Errors on Your Credit Report 

If you find any errors or suspicious activity on your credit report, you can immediately contact the Federal Trade Commission’s Identity Theft division to report it yourself. Or you can seek assistance from non-profit organizations like Tzedek DC or their partners at Working Credit to get help in resolving errors on your credit reports. Tzedek DC has lawyers available to help resolve credit legal issues. Working Credit provides free financial counseling, guidance, support, and advocacy to address credit report inaccuracies to help you improve your overall credit situation.

Errors on a credit report can potentially lower your credit score and disqualify you from financial opportunities that you might otherwise be able to access. While fixing an error on a credit report can sometimes feel like a hassle, it’s worth it!

Resolve to Frequently Check Your Credit Reports in 2024!

As the new year begins, this is the perfect time to get into the habit of checking your credit reports and maintaining financial accuracy. It’s easier to do than ever and is a simple and effective way to protect and increase your financial well-being. 

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Tzedek DC and Allies Applaud Clean Hands Reform Introduced by Councilmember McDuffie

Bill Would End Current Law’s Disqualification of People from Occupational and Small Business Licenses as Punishment for Unpaid Fines and Fees 

Tzedek DC released a report on the need for reform of DC’s Clean Hands Law and, with a coalition of allied organizations, applauded the introduction of reform legislation by DC Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie.

The current Clean Hands Law automatically disqualifies anyone with over $100 in unpaid fines and fees of any kind from obtaining DC government occupational and small business licenses. It affects more than 125 occupations, representing over 48,000 workers, including barbers, cosmetologists, nurses, social workers, plumbers, HVAC cleaners, food vendors, and dozens of other occupations crucial to the District’s economy.

Nearly one in five DC workers must get an occupational license before they can legally do their jobs. The DC Council’s Office of Racial Equity (CORE) has already concluded that “[b]ecause of the Clean Hands policy, Black residents are disproportionately blocked from occupational licenses [or] starting a business …. This leaves Black residents disproportionately impacted by fines but with fewer opportunities to build wealth that may help them pay debts resulting from fines and fees.” 

Tzedek DC’s report, “Locked Out: How DC Bans Workers with Unpaid Fines from More than 125 Jobs or Starting a Business, and What We Can Do About It,” shares the stories of directly impacted residents, illustrates the policy and legal problems of the current system through data-based explanations, and shows how DC’s counter-productive law makes it an outlier in the region and in the nation. The report concludes with a call to urgent action by DC’s policymakers. A support letter from anti-poverty, civil rights, faith-based, consumer protection, and justice advocacy groups accompanies the report. 

Councilmember McDuffie’s bill, the Clean Hands Economic Expansion and Revitalization Amendment Act of 2023, would, among other things, end the Clean Hands Law’s lockout of occupational and small business licenses for those with unpaid fines and fees to DC. 

“This is an issue of racial equity and good government,” said Councilmember McDuffie. “I’m concerned about the problems caused by the Clean Hands law for both DC workers and DC employers, and I am committed to ensuring our public policy helps reduce, not widen, the unacceptable DC racial gaps in wealth and employment. I appreciate the work done by all the residents and organizations to shed light on this issue. As the stories and extensive data in Tzedek DC’s Locked Out report show, we need reform.”

“Data shows that DC has the largest Black-white unemployment gap in the United States. The Clean Hands Law plays a significant role in perpetuating and widening racial and economic disparities in the District,” said Ariel Levinson-Waldman, Founding President and Director-Counsel of Tzedek DC. “The current law puts us at an economic disadvantage compared to neighboring states. We applaud Councilmember McDuffie for introducing this reform. Impacted DC residents and allies are coming together to support this much-needed change.”

Click here to read Tzedek DC’s Locked Out report.

Click here to read the coalition letter supporting the enactment of the Clean Hands Economic Expansion and Revitalization Amendment Act of 2023. 

Coalition Members

  • 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East 

  • Beloved Community Incubator (BCI)  

  • Building Bridges Across the River / Skyland Workforce Development Center

  • Capital Area Asset Builders (CAAB) 

  • CARECEN 

  • DC Affordable Law Firm 

  • DC Bar Pro Bono Center 

  • DC Fiscal Policy Institute (DCFPI) 

  • DC Justice Lab 

  • DC Volunteer Lawyers Project (DCVLP) 

  • Fines and Fees Justice Center (FFJC) 

  • Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Washington (JCRC) 

  • Legal Aid Justice Center 

  • Legal Aid Society of the District of Columbia  

  • Legal Counsel for the Elderly (LCE) 

  • Network for Victim Recovery of DC (NVRDC) 

  • Peter Edelman, Carmack Waterhouse Professor of Law and Public Policy, Georgetown University Law Center 

  • Pro Bono Institute 

  • Tzedek DC  

  • United Planning Organization

  • Washington Interfaith Network (WIN) 

  • Washington Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights and Urban Affairs  

  • Washington Legal Clinic for the Homeless (WLCH) 

About Tzedek DC 

Tzedek DC’s name is drawn from the ancient Jewish teaching “Tzedek, tzedek tirdof,” or “Justice, justice you shall pursue.” Launched in 2017 as a nonprofit public interest center headquartered at the UDC David A. Clarke School of Law, Tzedek DC also has offices in Ward 8. Tzedek DC’s mission is to safeguard the legal rights and financial health of DC residents with lower incomes facing the often-devastating consequences of debt collection and credit-related obstacles. Tzedek DC seeks to serve and empower our DC community client base, comprised of 90% Black residents, 60% women, and 25% disabled DC community members. Our approach combines (i) free direct legal and financial counseling services, (ii) working in coalition to make systemic change, and (iii) providing multi-lingual community education. Since 2017, Tzedek DC has served over 3,000 DC client households in legal and financial counseling matters and catalyzed systemic reforms benefiting hundreds of thousands of DC residents.

 Contact: Sam Pannell, Tzedek DC Policy Associate

sp@tzedekdc.org, (256) 715-9345

Tzedek DC Elects Three New Members to Board of Directors 

Tzedek DC is proud to announce the expansion of our Board of Directors through the addition of three outstanding new members, each with demonstrated commitment to Tzedek DC’s mission: Rebecca Azhdam, Joshua Levy, and Robin Nunn.  

Rebecca Azhdam is an Attorney in the Civil Rights and Labor Management Division of the U.S. Department of Labor. She previously practiced law at Tycko & Zavareei and, in 2019, served as a Tycko & Zavareei LLP Public Interest Fellow at Tzedek DC. During her time as a Fellow at Tzedek DC, she was instrumental in our successful efforts to overturn DC’s practice of automatically suspending driver’s licenses for those owing $100 or more in fines and fees to the District. She has since remained active as a Tzedek DC volunteer. 

Josh Levy is a Partner at Levy Firestone Muse LLP, where he specializes in litigation and white-collar matters. He formerly served as counsel to the U.S. Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Government Affairs and as counsel to U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer. He teaches at Georgetown Law and sits on the Board of Directors of the Washington Lawyer’s Committee on Civil Rights and Urban Affairs and on Tzedek DC’s Advisory Council. 

Robin Nunn is a Partner at Linklaters LLP. She is a seasoned trial attorney who has litigated over 300 cases before numerous courts. She is a former public defender, sits on the Board of Directors of the National Endowment for Financial Education, and is also active in DC affairs, including having served as an Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner, a member of the Board of Directors of the Duke Ellington School of Arts, and a member of Tzedek DC’s Advisory Council. 

In a joint statement, Tzedek DC’s Board Chair Rachel Kronowitz, and Founding President and Director-Counsel Ariel Levinson-Waldman, said: 

With the rippling impacts that consumer debt and fines and fees have across DC for vulnerable community members, the need for Tzedek DC’s work—legal, systemic, and educational—is greater than ever. We are honored to welcome Rebecca, Josh, and Robin to the Board. Their unique past and present leadership roles, talents, experiences, perspectives, and public interest commitments will bring additional strength to Tzedek DC’s efforts towards justice. We are at the same time expressing deep gratitude to Irv Nathan and Courtney Weiner, who are each founding Board members and now term-limited as they are completing their seventh year of Board service. Both have made enormous contributions to our work. 

About Tzedek DC 

Drawing from the Jewish teachings of “Tzedek, tzedek tirdof,” or “Justice, justice you shall pursue,” Tzedek DC’s mission is to safeguard the legal rights and financial health of DC residents with lower incomes facing the often-devastating consequences of debt collection and credit-related obstacles. This mission responds to the massive wealth gaps in DC and nationwide. Tzedek DC serves a client base of 90% African American, 60% women, and 25% disabled community members. Our strategic approach combines three synergistic activities: (i) free legal representation and advice; (ii) working in coalition to make systemic change; and (iii) providing community legal education on debt collection, identity theft, and credit management. Since 2017, Tzedek DC has served over 3,000 client households in legal matters—saving clients an average of $2,625 per full representation case—and helped catalyze systemic reforms with substantial impacts for hundreds of thousands of DC residents. 

Tzedek DC and Stackwell Join Forces to Launch DC Young Adult Financial Empowerment Program

The 12-Month Pilot Program Will Provide Financial Education, Counseling Services, and Seed Capital to Kickstart the Investment Process

Tzedek DC and Stackwell are pleased to announce the launch of the DC Young Adult Financial Empowerment Program, designed to promote greater financial wellness and inclusion for residents of DC. This groundbreaking 12-month pilot program will provide financial education workshops aimed at the specific needs of young adults—like budgeting, managing debt, understanding a paycheck, building credit, and investing—and will provide each eligible participant with $100 in grant funding to start their investment journeys on the Stackwell investment platform.

This pilot program for young adults is open to all DC residents over 18 years old, with a specific focus on residents of Wards 7 and 8, as well as University of the District of Columbia students who are DC, Maryland, or Virginia residents. The program will provide up to 100 participants with a series of financial education workshops broken into 8-week cohorts that are offered four separate times over the course of the next year. Along with a meal at each session, the program will also offer participants access to individualized, free financial counseling sessions and will help program participants establish tailored financial plans and achievable goals.

Tzedek DC and Stackwell are joined in this program by partners that include Industrial Bank, DC’s oldest Black-owned bank, which will host and co-teach a session, and the nonprofit Building Bridges Across the River, which will provide classroom space at its Skyland Workforce Development Center to house the workshops in Southeast DC.

Tzedek DC’s Community Outreach Coordinator, Stephen Jefferson, who grew up in Ward 7 and graduated from H.D. Woodson High School when financial literacy was still an integral part of DC’s public school curriculum, said, “This program is so important. It addresses issues we are hearing about every day in the community from young people and their families. We’re excited to work with these terrific partners and build on our past work in this area for the DC community.”

Forty-eight percent of DC’s population identifies as Black/African American or multi-race. Meanwhile, due to the continuing effects of structural racism, White DC households have a net worth that is 8,100 percent higher than Black DC households. The racial wealth gap directly impacts and exacerbates numerous other racial gaps, including health equity, affordable housing, job opportunities, access to justice, and access to quality education.

In 2017, DC received an “F” on the Champlain College Center for Financial Literacy national report card, which analyzes each state’s efforts to advance financial literacy for high school students. Tzedek DC, Stackwell, and their partners are actively engaging with DC community members to remedy this shortcoming by prioritizing financial access and inclusion for young Black adults in DC.

“The racial wealth gap is the social justice issue of our time,” said Trevor Rozier-Byrd, Founder and CEO at Stackwell. “We are excited to work with the partner organizations in this pilot to make a positive impact on the financial well-being of young Black adults in DC. This pilot program will equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate their financial futures, achieve financial stability, and drive impact across key social issues for themselves, their families, and community for generations to come.”

For more information about the DC Young Adult Financial Empowerment Program or to register to participate, please visit the DC Young Adult Financial Empowerment Program registration page.

About Tzedek DC

Tzedek DC’s name is drawn from the ancient Jewish teaching “Tzedek, tzedek tirdof,” or “Justice, justice you shall pursue.” Launched in 2017 by founder and current Director Ariel Levinson-Waldman as a nonprofit public interest center headquartered at the UDC David A. Clarke School of Law, Tzedek DC also has offices in Ward 8. Tzedek DC’s mission is to safeguard the legal rights and financial health of DC residents with lower incomes facing the often-devastating consequences of debt collection and credit-related obstacles. Tzedek DC seeks to serve and empower our DC community client base, comprised of 90% Black residents, 60% women, and 25% disabled DC community members. Our approach combines (i) free direct legal and financial counseling services, (ii) working in coalition to make systemic change, and (iii) providing multi-lingual community education. Since 2017, Tzedek DC has served over 3,000 DC client households in legal and financial counseling matters and catalyzed systemic reforms benefiting hundreds of thousands of DC residents.

About Stackwell

Stackwell Capital, Inc., is a leading fintech company that has created a digital investment platform for the Black community. With a mission to eliminate the racial wealth gap in America, Stackwell provides the financial investment tools and guidance necessary to help build lasting wealth, equity, and equal opportunity. Stackwell has developed a unique ecosystem of strategic partners in financial services, higher education, professional sports, and created an ever-growing NIL student-athlete ambassador program. Stackwell was a member of the 2022 Financial Solutions Lab and MassChallenge U.S. Early-Stage accelerator programs. For more information, visit stackwellcapital.com.

Media Contacts

Tzedek DC
Caitlyn Hickman
ch@tzedekdc.org

Stackwell Capital, Inc.
media@stackwellcapital.com

Tzedek DC's Medical Debt Project Featured in Washington Lawyer

An article in the November-December 2023 issue of Washington Lawyer magazine, titled “The Crushing Weight of Medical Debt,” features Tzedek DC's work, with a focus on our medical debt project. It includes quotes from Director Ariel Levinson-Waldman, Equal Justice Works Fellow Jennifer Holloway, and Community Outreach Coordinator Stephen Jefferson, with a discussion of both how medical debt is a racial and disability justice issue and of systemic solutions that Tzedek DC is championing. 

The full article is available here.

Director Ariel Levinson-Waldman Receives NCLC Rising Star Award

Tzedek DC’s Founding Director Ariel Levinson-Waldman was awarded the National Consumer Law Center’s 2023 Rising Star Award, given to three consumer advocates in the nation at their 2023 Consumer Rights Litigation Conference and Consumer Class Action Symposium on October 28.

Hassan Zavareei, a partner at one of Tzedek DC’s pro bono partner firms, Tycko & Zavareei, and a member of the NCLC’s Partners Council, presented the award, emphasizing the impact of Tzedek DC’s case-by-case litigation as well as system work on debt collection and fines and fees reform issues.

Ariel Levinson-Waldman said, “I’m grateful to NCLC and Hassan for this recognition, which is really a recognition of the outstanding work of my Tzedek DC colleagues.”

About NCLC and Rising Star Award

Since 1969, the nonprofit National Consumer Law Center has worked for consumer justice and economic security for low-income and other disadvantaged people in the United States through its expertise in policy analysis and advocacy, publications, litigation, expert witness services, and training.

The Rising Star Award is presented annually by the National Consumer Law Center’s Partners Council to one or more attorneys in consumer practice for 15 years or less who have made major contributions to consumer law within the past two years by trying or settling a case of great success and significance.

About Tzedek DC

Tzedek DC's name is drawn from the ancient Jewish teaching "Tzedek, tzedek tirdof," or "Justice, justice you shall pursue." Tzedek DC is a nonprofit public interest center headquartered at the UDC David A. Clarke School of Law and also has offices in Ward 8. Tzedek DC's mission is to safeguard the legal rights and financial health of DC residents with lower incomes facing the often-devastating consequences of debt collection and credit-related obstacles. Tzedek DC seeks to serve and empower our DC community client base, comprised of 90% Black residents, 60% women, and 25% disabled DC community members. Our approach combines (i) free direct legal and financial counseling services, (ii) working in coalition to make systemic change, and (iii) providing multi-lingual community education. Since 2017, Tzedek DC has served over 3,000 DC client households in legal and financial counseling matters and catalyzed systemic reforms benefiting hundreds of thousands of DC residents.

Tzedek DC Celebrates Partnership with DC Government Summer Community Event Series

The DC Metropolitan Police Department Beat the Streets Summer Event family (“Street Beats”) brings DC businesses and community-based organizations to provide resources and services to underserved communities in DC. Tzedek DC was proud to deepen our partnership with Street Beats in the summer of 2023.

This year, the Street Beats series included ten events, drawing an estimated 13,500+ people cumulatively. Tzedek DC staff, with leadership by Tzedek DC team member Stephen Jefferson, Sr., supported the events with tents, flyers, “Know Your Rights” information, water, and real-time consults for community members on credit, credit reports, and protecting your legal and financial rights. Hundreds of community members engaged with these materials, asked questions and got answers from Tzedek DC staff at the tables.

Stephen Jefferson, Sr., who serves as Tzedek DC’s Community Outreach Coordinator, said, “It’s truly a blessing to be a part of the MPD Street Beats family. This year was especially a blessing because a lot of DC residents didn’t realize that Tzedek DC is legal help for people in debt and other consumer-related issues, and to see the look of hope in the eyes and on the faces of the people who visited our table is priceless and a game changer. Because of our presence at these events, we have been invited to table at events hosted by DC Councilmembers’ offices, ANC members, Manage Care Organizations (MCO), Churches, Community Based Organizations (CBO), and other DC Government Agencies throughout the city. It’s a humbling feeling when you can bless others so they will have what they need to move on.”

Ariel Levinson-Waldman, Tzedek DC’s Founding President and Director-Counsel, said, “We are grateful to the leaders at MPD and fellow nonprofits for the partnerships in this outreach work and to our outstanding colleague Stephen Jefferson for leading our successful efforts to get the word out to residents on key credit and related information on tools available to DC community members.”

Tzedek DC Launches Economic Abuse Reform Advocacy

In acknowledgment of October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Tzedek DC is announcing the launch of an advocacy effort to reform District of Columbia law to better protect survivors of domestic violence who suffered economic abuse.

For many survivors of domestic violence, economic abuse follows. The Bureau of Justice Statistics notes that 85% of all victims of domestic violence are women, and according to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, between 94%-99% of all survivors of domestic violence experienced economic abuse.

Economic abuse involves maintaining control over financial resources, withholding access to money, or attempting to prevent a victim or survivor from working and/or attending school to create financial dependence as a means of control. These actions can often result in poor credit for the economically abused partner, and many clients find themselves in a financially disadvantaged position when escaping an abusive relationship.

In addition to poor credit, economic abuse has been found to negatively impact quality of life; increase outstanding debt; increase depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation while lowering self-esteem; and increase the likelihood of food insecurity and mortality. 

Tzedek DC will work with directly impacted DC survivors and allied residents as well as legal and social services providers to craft proposed legislation for the District to address economic abuse and better protect survivors’ financial and economic lives. 

To get involved in this effort, please contact Tzedek DC’s Policy Director, Melissa Millar, at mm@tzedekdc.org.

Tzedek DC Celebrates the Public Health Emergency Credit Alert Amendment Act  

Thanks to the work of the DC Council’s Chair Phil Mendelson and At-Large Member Robert C. White, Jr., and the unanimous approval of the DC Council, DC residents are now permanently protected from having COVID-related missed and late payments on credit reports used against them by certain users of credit reports, including by prospective landlords.

Tzedek DC and partners, including Legal Aid DC, Legal Counsel for the Elderly, Neighborhood Legal Services Program, National Consumer Law Center, and Color of Change, advocated for this law, obtaining temporary emergency protection since 2020. The new law makes this protection permanent, which is important as negative credit items will remain on consumer credit reports for at least seven years.

Ariel Levinson-Waldman, Tzedek DC’s Founding President and Director-Counsel, said, “COVID-related financial harms on credit reports will last for many more years, and, because of the massive racial wealth gaps—as well as the disparate impact on communities of color from debt collection—are an issue of racial justice in DC. Tzedek DC and our partners and client communities are proud to have worked with Council Member Robert White to lead the establishment of this consumer protection, the first of its kind in the country. We are grateful as well to Tzedek DC’s Volunteer Staff Attorney Linda Coe, whose sustained work and acumen over the last three years focused on this issue has paid off for DC residents.”

Tzedek DC, Legal Counsel for the Elderly, and Neighborhood Legal Services Program developed a website in both English and Spanish for DC residents to add statements to their credit reports to ensure that they receive the law’s protection, which has been accessed by numerous residents. Tzedek DC will continue to maintain the website and assist DC residents who need this protection.

Beware of Credit Repair Company Scams This Halloween Season!

Trick or Treat? Don't Let Credit Repair Company Scams Haunt Your Finances!

As the leaves fall and Halloween approaches, it's time to beware of more than just ghosts and goblins. This month, we shine a light on a different kind of spookiness that could haunt your financial well-being: credit repair company scams.

The Scary Reality of Credit Repair Company Scams

For-profit credit repair companies make enticing promises about repairing credit and boosting credit scores. However, the risk of scams is high, and the potential value is low. Many credit repair companies are more interested in tricks than treats, preying on vulnerable consumers in need of financial stability.

A safer way to improve and understand your credit score is through a reputable credit counselor or nonprofit, such as Tzedek DC’s partner organization, Working Credit. Working Credit is a mission-driven nonprofit that offers FREE one-on-one credit counseling.

Don’t be afraid to ghost a company that you think may be trying to scam you. Here are some red flags to watch out for when dealing with credit repair companies that could be up to no good.

  1. Upfront Fees: It is illegal for credit repair companies to request or accept payment until they have completed the services they have promised, so do not deal with any company that charges an up-front payment (including through a monthly payment plan).

  2. Guaranteed Results: No credit repair company can guarantee specific results, and no one can remove a negative mark from your credit report if it's accurate. Promises of a "new credit identity" or an instant score boost should set off alarm bells.

  3. Lack of Transparency: Scammers often avoid explaining their processes or the specific actions they'll take on your behalf. Legitimate companies are open and transparent about their methods.

  4. Pressure and Aggressive Sales Tactics: If you feel pressured into making quick decisions or signing contracts without sufficient time to review them, it's a sign to walk away.

  5. Incomplete or Inaccurate Information: Be cautious if the company asks you to provide false information or to dispute negative but accurate items on your credit report. Doing so could create legal problems for you.

Defend Yourself Against the Credit Repair Ghouls this Halloween!

Don't be scared! Arm yourself with knowledge and take steps to protect yourself from credit repair company scams.

  1. Check the Company’s Credentials: Check the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) Complaint Database and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) for complaints from previous customers or see if the company is included in the Department of Justice’s vetted list of credit counseling companies.

  2. Review the Contract Carefully: Never sign a contract without thoroughly reading and understanding it. If something seems spooky, consult a legal expert before proceeding.

  3. Monitor Your Credit Report: Regularly check your credit report for free at AnnualCreditReport.com. You can dispute errors and inaccuracies yourself without the need for a credit repair company. Here’s help on how to do that: CFPB guide to disputing errors on your credit report.

  4. Seek Advice From a Trusted Professional: If you need help with improving your credit or disputing erroneous or fraudulent information on your credit report, consider working with a financial or credit counselor, lawyer, or a non-profit organization, such as Tzedek DC with a proven track record of helping consumers.

  5. Report Suspicious Activity: If you encounter a credit repair scam or believe you've been a victim, report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the DC Attorney General's office.

This Halloween season, keep your finances safe from credit repair company scams. DON’T LET THE TRICKS OF SCAMMERS HAUNT YOUR FINANCIAL FUTURE! Instead, treat yourself to credit counseling from a trusted source!

Tzedek DC Co-Convening 10/19 Medical Debt Panel

In the wake of the pandemic, medical debt has become the largest category of debt collections in the United States and the single largest cause of people declaring bankruptcy. The racial justice and health equity implications of medical debt are staggering. Those struggling with medical debt are less likely to seek the care that they need, while Black DC residents are 300 percent more likely than white residents to be burdened by medical debt.

A panel on October 19, 2023, at 7 p.m. hosted by Temple Sinai (with a virtual option as well) will illuminate the scope and impact of medical debt, particularly on BIPOC residents of the DMV, and discuss ways to eliminate medical debt, both through one-time giving and systemic advocacy. The discussion will highlight how private philanthropy purchasing and eliminating medical debt provides immediate relief to families dealing with the devastating consequences of medical debt, why systemic policy reform to break the cycle of medical debt is needed going forward, and what can be done.

Temple Sinai’s Senior Rabbi Jonathan Roos will give opening remarks on debt cancellation as a Jewish value. The panel will be moderated by Ariel Levinson-Waldman, Tzedek DC’s Founding President and Director-Counsel. Panelists include:

The panel discussion will be the kick-off for an exciting Temple Sinai financial campaign to eliminate more than $1 million in medical debt in DC and Maryland. With the collaboration of Tzedek DC, Temple Sinai is working with RIP Medical Debt, a national non-profit organization providing debt relief to underserved communities. For every dollar donated, RIP can purchase and cancel $100 in medical debt and also completely erase medical debt from patients’ credit reports, offering them a fresh start.

Further discussion of medical debt can be reviewed in this recent New York Times article.

Register today to attend either in person or virtually.

About Tzedek DC and Our Medical Debt Project

Tzedek DC’s name is drawn from the ancient Jewish teaching “Tzedek, tzedek tirdof,” or “Justice, justice you shall pursue.” Headquartered at the University of the District of Columbia David A. Clarke School of Law, Tzedek DC’s mission is to safeguard the legal rights and financial health of DC residents with lower incomes facing the often-devastating consequences of debt collection and credit-related obstacles, including those arising from medical debt. This mission is carried out as anti-racism work in response to the massive wealth gaps tracking race in DC and nationwide. Tzedek DC seeks to serve and empower its client base, which is comprised of 90% Black residents, 60% women, and 25% disabled community members. Our strategic approach combines three synergistic activities: (i) free direct services—legal representation and advice, and financial counseling; (ii) working in coalition to make systemic change; and (iii) providing bilingual community legal education on debt collection, identity theft, and credit management. Since 2017, Tzedek DC has served over 3,000 client households in legal matters and catalyzed systemic reforms benefiting hundreds of thousands of DC residents.

A portion of Tzedek DC’s medical debt work is funded by the Health Equity Fund. The $95 million Health Equity Fund is designated to improve the health outcomes and health equity of residents of the District of Columbia. The historic fund is one of the largest philanthropic funds of any kind focused on community-based nonprofits that serve District residents. Created against a backdrop of urgent healthcare needs in the District of Columbia, the Health Equity Fund will be used to address health disparities and social determinants of health for historically underserved District residents. The Greater Washington Community Foundation was independently selected to manage the Health Equity Fund because of its track record of working with individual donors, businesses, and local government to manage effective community investments and create tangible, lasting change in the region. Health Equity Fund goals align with The Community Foundation’s ongoing work and 10-year strategic vision to close the racial wealth gap by eliminating the historic, racialized disparities in the Greater Washington region.

Tzedek DC Quoted in New York Times Article on Medical Debt

Tzedek DC was recently featured in a New York Times article on medical debt. The piece discusses the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)'s move to create new rules that would prevent medical debt from appearing on credit reports and affecting credit scores. Our Equal Justice Works Medical Debt Fellow, Jennifer Holloway, was quoted multiple times.

As Jennifer points out in the article, many people with medical debt are those with chronic illnesses who need continuing care or those with a one-time injury that required treatment in the emergency room. "They fell and broke their ankle, they have a high deductible and now they're thousands of dollars in debt."

The rules are still in development, and in the meantime, Jennifer also provided advice in the article on what to do if you can't afford to pay a medical bill. She advised asking for a detailed bill to compare with your insurer's explanation of benefits as well as keeping medical debt in perspective when managing your other bills—prioritizing paying your rent, mortgage, or car loans first.

2023 Eat Well, Do Justice!® Recap

Last week, Tzedek DC held our seventh annual Eat Well, Do Justice!® celebration. We are enormously grateful for the outpouring of support reflected at the event, which helped us raise over $403,000—and still counting!—in support of our justice mission over the course of a fun, substantive, and tasty evening. A huge thank you to all who made the evening, the second back in person after a two-year hiatus, a special one!

The program kicked off with a video compilation of features from previous Eat Well, Do Justice events, including past years’ messages from U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren, then-Attorney General Karl Racine, and DC Councilmembers Robert White and Brianne Nadeau. Tzedek DC’s Board Chair Rachel Kronowitz delivered welcoming remarks.

Founding President & Director-Counsel Ariel Levinson-Waldman spoke about our work, including our financial counselor program and our new Youth Empowerment Program with UDC Community College and other partners. He and Associate Director Sarah Hollender presented Volunteer Senior Advisor Janet Lowenthal with our inaugural Volunteer Service Award. CNN Anchor and Chief Political Correspondent Dana Bash also sent in her words of support virtually from New York City, where she had been called away for her day job!

The five stellar chefs, recruited by Honorary Chair Bonnie Benwick, stole the show that evening, however, each with their own unique creations. Maurice Dixon of Reese’s Catering showcased an inspired Sweet Potato Soul Roll, Jerome Grant of Mahal Afro-Filipino BBQ fame (among other accomplishments) highlighted local ingredients with a Mushroom and Walnut Lumpia, Katherine Thompson of Thompson Italian provided the perfect end-of-summer dish in the form of a Sweet Corn Tortellini with Aleppo Butter and Chives, and Padua Player, the SugaChef himself, brought in the dessert with Caramel Apple Profiteroles.

Even though it may feel like picking your favorite child, as moderator Laura Kumin noted, one stuffed creation shone especially! The Sweet Potato Puchka with a Kokum Shot on the side from Rahul Vinod & Sahil Rahman of RASA won the judges’ hearts and took home the evening’s well-deserved victory.

We are especially grateful to guest judges Doron Azrad and Rachell Bitton, owners of Kosher Sustenance, and Donna Henry of Soup Up, cumulatively co-winners of Eat Well, Do Justice 2022: Soup for the Soul! We are also grateful to Congressman Glenn Ivey (a former Tzedek DC volunteer lawyer!), who generously supported the event with his name but was held up in debates at the nearby Capitol.

The event was skillfully co-chaired by Annie Binder, Laura Kumin, June Kress, and Nina Simon. The Host Committee and Sponsors were also instrumental in the evening’s success. For those who were unable to attend, links to the recap video, as well as Dana Bash’s remarks, are available above. In addition, you can check out this great story about the event in DC Bar by reporter Jeremy Conrad!

As announced at the event, gifts to Tzedek DC this month are being matched thanks to the extraordinary generosity of several anonymous donors. The match extends up to $18,000 and has not yet closed. Please consider donating now to double the impact of your gift!

As in past years, this Eat Well, Do Justice event sold out days before the event. Make sure to secure your tickets for EWDJ 2024 when they become available next summer!

Pro Bono Training on October 16!

Debt-related legal crises for residents with low incomes are a major, persistent problem in DC that, with legal counsel, can be avoided altogether—with success rates above 90%—or settled on terms that protect the client. For example, legal representation can be instrumental in cases involving insufficient proof by the collector, mistaken identity, when the amount claimed is wrong, when the debt has already been paid, or when the debt is too old to be collected under the governing law. Additionally, debt collection practices are shaped by decades of oppressive policies that target persons of color. Therefore, debt is not only an economic issue, but a civil rights issue.

In response to these issues, Tzedek DC offers direct legal services at no cost to low-income and working-class DC residents with debt- and consumer-related legal issues. We are able to provide legal assistance free of charge through our partnerships with the UDC David A. Clarke School of Law, community groups, and individual lawyers and law firms from the DC private bar.

Join Tzedek DC for a training on October 16 from 3:30-5:00 PM to help us meet this increase in demand for legal help and to learn about Tzedek DC’s work and the nuts and bolts of taking a case.  This training will be presented in hybrid fashion via Zoom and in person at the DC office of Paul Hastings, LLP at 2050 M St. NW, Washington, DC 20036.

This presentation overviews the steps that are taken at Tzedek DC from client intake to trial in DC Superior Court, including crucial information regarding debt collection laws, statements of claim, and specific statutes of limitations. Additionally, we will outline the assignment process for pro bono volunteers at Tzedek DC and additional aid that can be given to clients. See a matter through from intake to completion in about a total of 15 hours (on average) over a few months.

You can register by emailing Tzedek DC’s Pro Bono Coordinator A.J. Huber at ah@tzedekdc.org.  When you register, please let us know whether you would like to attend in person or remotely.  In person seats are limited and on a first-come, first-served basis.  Although attending the training is a requirement for taking a pro bono case with Tzedek DC, taking the training does not obligate anyone to take a pro bono case.

We hope to see you there!

DMV Back-To-School Events & Resources

Tzedek DC’s mission is to safeguard the legal rights and financial health of DC residents facing debt-related problems. DMV agencies and community organizations have planned a series of back-to-school events from August to September and are inviting students, families, and educators to participate. These events provide financial, supplies, and information-related support to families gearing up for the return to school.

Make sure to mark your calendars!

DYRS Back to School Celebration

Join the Department of Human Services Youth Services Division for a DYRS Back to School Celebration that is free for all ages. The event will include free giveaways, food, free school supplies, live DJs, a game truck, ice cream, a bounce house, 360 camera, free haircuts, and games and prizes. For more information, contact Quyen Nguyen at quyen.nguyen@dc.gov.

  • When: Wednesday, August 16, 12 pm – 4 pm

  • Where: The ARC (1901 Mississippi Ave SE, Washington, DC 20020)

  • Register to attend

DCPS Back-to-School Information Session

Join Chancellor Ferebee and DC Public Schools leadership for a webinar to learn important updates on the coming school year. Topics include student health, safety, academics, early childhood, attendance, and more!

Multilingual Learner Institute

The Office of the State Superintendent of Education invites District educators to attend this annual event to learn and share best practices for supporting multilingual learners. Registration is required to attend.

  • When: Thursday, August 17, 8:30 am – 3:30 pm

  • Where: Kellogg Conference Center at Gallaudet University (800 Florida Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002)

  • Register to attend

Public Safety Back-to-School Event

Join the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Public Safety and Justice for the 6th annual back-to-school event featuring a book bag and school supplies giveaway, food, games, and more.

  • When: Thursday, August 17, 2 pm – 7 pm

  • Where: Columbia Heights Educational Campus (3101 16th St NW, Washington, DC 20010)

9th Annual Chuck Brown Day

Chuck Brown Day commemorates the life legacy and music of DC legend and the Godfather of Go-Go, Chuck Brown. Every year, the celebration features musical performances by the Chuck Brown Band and others. The Chuck Brown Foundation will be giving out free backpacks for the kids. This year’s Chuck Brown Day will be bigger, better, and more cranking.

  • When: Saturday, August 19, 2 pm – 7 pm

  • Where: Fort DuPont Park (Minnesota Ave SE, Washington, DC 20019)

Community and Resource Day

Join the Community Crisis Services, Inc. and Christian Life Center along with their partners for free groceries, community resources, and school supplies.

  • When: Saturday, August 19, 11 am – 2 pm

  • Where: Tanglewood Park (rear side of Fletchers Field, 5567 Tanglewood Dr, Riverdale, MD 20737)

Back-to-School Drive & Jacob’s Ladder Technology Center Grand Opening

300 backpacks with school supplies and non-perishable food items will be given out by the Jacob's Ladder Youth Foundation, with refreshments from Dunkin’ Donuts.

  • When: Saturday, August 19, 12 pm – when supplies last

  • Where: 11418 Livingston Rd, Fort Washington, MD 20744

Back 2 School Supply Drive

The 9th annual school supply drive is being presented by DMV Road 2 Success.

  • When: Saturday, August 19, 1:30 pm – while supplies last

  • Where: Look Fabulous Unisex Hair Salon (2203 Minnesota Ave SE, Washington, DC 20020)

  • To qualify, the child must be present and accompanied by an adult

7th Mega Health Fair

Join Redeemers Church of Christ and American Diversity Group for back-to-school giveaways, free food, and free screenings for cholesterol, diabetes, high blood pressure, EKG, eye exams, mammogram, mental health, pain management, weight management, and dental. For more details, call (240) 929-6185 or email info@redeemerschapel.org.

  • When: Saturday, August 19, 10 am – 2 pm

  • Where: Redeemers Church of Christ (10001 Aerospace Rd, Lanham, MD 20706)

Ward 8 Back 2 School Backpack Giveaway & Family Fun Day

Join Councilmember Trayvon White for a fun-filled day of activities such as moon bouncing, haircuts and styling, face painting, concessions, food, and arts and crafts. For more information, call (202) 724-8045 or email jjessie@dccouncil.gov.

  • When: Saturday, August 19, 12 pm – 4 pm

  • Where: Gateway Pavilion DC (2700 MLK Jr Ave SE, Washington, DC 20032)

  • Register to attend (Must show proof of Ward 8 residency to attend)

5th Annual Free School Supplies Giveaway

Join the Rock for Life Foundation's annual school supply giveaway in honor of Sterling "Rocky" Parker II. Contact Ms. Dhyana Parker at (240) 719-1644 or rockforlife@yahoo.com for details.

  • When: Saturday, August 19, 12 pm – 3 pm (or until supplies last)

  • Where: Iverson Mall (3737 Branch Ave, Temple Hills, MD 20748)

Missionary Ministry Annual Drive Thru Backpack Giveaway

Join First Baptist Church of Highland Park's backpack giveaway event for students from Pre-K to college. Students must be present in the car to be eligible.

  • When: Saturday, August 19, 11 am – 1 pm

  • Where: First Baptist Church of Highland Park (6801 Sheriff Rd, Landover, MD 20785)

Back-to-School Giveaway

Join Far Southeast Family Strengthening Collaborative for a half-day event with free food, health exams, games, music, raffles for new balance shoes, and community resources. For more information, reach out to the event host via (202) 889-1425, @Farsecollab, or www.fsfsc.org.

  • When: Wednesday, August 23, 1 pm – 5 pm

  • Where: Far Southeast Family Strengthening Collaborative (4301 9th St SE, Washington, DC 20032)

End of Summer Back-to-School Event

Join the Department of Parks and Recreation for getting ready for another successful school year, with a giveaway of school supplies, amusements, refreshments, music, and more.

  • When: Thursday, August 24, 12 pm – 4 pm

  • Where: Ridge Road Community Center (830 Ridge Rd SE, Washington, DC 20019)

Back 2 School Event with DYRS

Meet with DYRS staff, community agencies, and local schools to enroll in the upcoming school year and build a support network. The event will include free backpacks, school supplies, hygiene items, school uniforms, haircuts, resources, food, and games. To learn more, contact the program manager Janay Williams by email at janay.williams2@dc.gov or by phone at (202) 330-2370.

  • When: Friday, August 25, 12 pm – 5 pm

  • Where: The Fields at RFK Campus, Pavilion A&B (401 Oklahoma Ave NE, Washington, DC 20019)

Soles4scholars School Drive

Join Bullard Academy for free school supplies, food, moon bounce games and much more. During the back-to-school celebration, students accompanied by an adult will receive one pair of shoes each. For further details, please send a direct message or an email to bullardacademyinc@gmail.com. 

  • When: Friday, August 25, 5 pm – 8 pm

  • Where: Landover Police Station (7600 Barlowe Rd Landover, MD 20785)

Ward 6 #WeKeepUsSafe Back to School Bash

Join Serve Your City DC and Ward 6 Mutual Aid Back for the new school year kickoff event! Get a backpack filled with supplies and a digital device. Register for tutoring and youth programs, get help with school paperwork, and get vaccinated. Lots of resources are available, so don't miss it!

  • When: Saturday, August 26, 11 am – 4 pm

  • Where: Eastern Market Metro Plaza (701 Pennsylvania Ave SE, Washington, DC 20003)

  • Request backpack (backpacks must be requested in advance)

Back-to-School Backpack Drive with Free Kids Haircuts

Join the Alpha Sigma Chapter's Back to School Backpack Drive & Block Party. Get free book bags, school supplies, haircuts, food, and music.

  • When: Saturday, August 26, 11 am – 1 pm   

  • Where: 5100 Block of Brooks & Blaine St NE, Washington, DC 20019

  • Register to attend (must register in Eventbrite in order to get a book bag or haircut, and child must be present to receive backpack)

Annual Community Day Health and Wellness Fair 2023

The DC Health Places of Worship Advisory Board, in partnership with Valley Avenue, is excited to present the 7th Annual Community Day Health and Wellness Fair. This Fair will provide community members with lots of free opportunities for food, friends, and fun, as well as free school supplies, vaccinations, and dental exams for children.

  • When: Saturday, August 26, 2 pm – 6 pm

  • Where: Oxon Run Park (1200 Mississippi Ave SE, Washington, DC 20032)

  • Register to attend

Shepherd Park Welcome Back Party

Join the Department of Parks and Recreation for a welcome back to school party for community members.

  • When: Wednesday, September 27, 3:30 pm – 6 pm

  • Where: Shepherd Park Community Center (7800 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20012)

Afterschool in the City 2023

Join Deputy Mayor for Education’s Out of School Time Office, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations, and other partners for the opportunity to hear about various opportunity available for youth during the school year.

  • When: Saturday, September 9, 11 am – 2 pm

  • Where: Turkey Thicket Recreation Center (1100 Michigan Ave NE, Washington, DC 20017)

  • Register to attend

DCPS Back-to-School Block Party

Join the DC Public Schools community for a DCPS Back to School Block Party. The event will include free food and fun activities, the ability to learn more about city resources, and will include student performances to celebrate the start of a new school year with families and neighbors.

  • When: Saturday, September 23, 11 am – 2 pm

  • Where: McKinley Tech High School (151 T St NE, Washington, DC 20002)

  • Register to attend

To stay informed about upcoming events pertaining to your child's school community or additional uniform assistance, it's recommended that you reach out to your child's school.

Tzedek DC and Venable Secure Systemic Litigation Victory

Federal Court Lawsuit Leads to Policy Changes for DC Residents Seeking Drivers Licenses; Residents Who Brought Suit Receive Payments

In a step forward for fairness in DC’s fines and fees system, a 2022 federal court constitutional challenge brought by Tzedek DC and pro bono co-counsel at Venable LLP on behalf of DC resident clients has led to the DC Government agreeing to end its longstanding policy under the Clean Hands Law to automatically disqualify residents from obtaining or renewing a driver’s license as punishment for unpaid fines and fees of over $100. The District has announced that policy on the DMV website, https://dmv.dc.gov/, and in a DMV newsletter and social media post. 

In addition, Tzedek DC is pleased to announce that the DC Government agreed to reimburse a portion of Tzedek DC’s and Venable’s pro bono attorneys’ fees, and that families of the individual former plaintiffs in the case are each receiving up to $3,000 to help them pay off their fines and fees or otherwise stabilize their finances.

These results followed the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia’s December 2022 ruling in the case Parham v. District of Columbia. There, the Court ordered the DC government to immediately stop enforcing the Clean Hands Law against residents applying to obtain or renew a driver’s license while owing over $100 in fines or fees to the District.

In the case, Tzedek DC and Venable challenged the constitutionality of the District’s Clean Hands Law on behalf of a number of DC residents disqualified from obtaining driver’s licenses due to unpaid fines and fees. In granting the motion for a preliminary injunction, U.S. District Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly found that our clients had demonstrated that they were likely to succeed in their argument that the law violated constitutional guarantees of due process because the District was automatically disqualifying individuals with no opportunity for a hearing. The Court found that they “are just some of the tens of thousands of DC residents who have been barred from receiving driver’s licenses under the Clean Hands Law.” Citing a report by the DC Council’s Office of Racial Equity, the Court noted that “ending the application of the Clean Hands Law to driver’s licenses will likely improve… [the] quality of life outcomes for Black residents who have a debt to the District government,” and will “mitigate the burden on D.C. residents with disabilities, those who lack stable housing, and those who are struggling to maintain steady employment.”

Carlotta Mitchell, one of the DC residents who shared her story and was a plaintiff in the case, said, “It's a new lease on life… I have had a permit and a driver's license since I was 16 years old. So when I was stripped of my driver's license, I felt empty. A sense of belonging had been taken away.”

Another plaintiff, Victor Hall, is a DC native and a veteran who served for 14 years as a reservist with the DC National Guard and in active duty as a sergeant with the U.S. Army. Due to the Clean Hands Law, Mr. Hall has faced daily hardships because he could not legally drive. He had to rely on friends or expensive rideshare services for rides to his medical and physical therapy appointments and to visit family members. Mr. Hall, who recently obtained a driver’s license and has begun a new job search, said, "I appreciate the [advocacy team’s] time and effort. There are a lot of people out there who need their driver's licenses."

Mr. Hall displaying his new driver’s license.

Ariel Levinson-Waldman, Tzedek DC's Founding President and Director-Counsel, said, “The Court’s ruling recognized and halted the unconstitutional impact that the Clean Hands law was having on DC residents’ ability to find and get to work, take care of loved ones, and manage their daily lives. We have been honored to represent these community members as they fought this fight and catalyzed change that benefits tens of thousands of DC residents burdened by fines and fees. The public owes them a debt of gratitude."

Public Advisory: A law that the DC Council passed in mid-2022 abolished the application of the Clean Hands Law to driver’s licenses, effective October 1, 2023. However, thanks to the Court’s ruling and the resulting settlement, the policy change has been made by the DC Government and has already taken full legal effect. Tzedek DC encourages DC residents who have been previously disqualified from obtaining their driver’s license due to fines and fees to apply to the DC DMV and to call us at 202-274-7386 with any questions.