In 1998, the National Consumer Law Center (NCLC) began a national Immigrant Consumer Rights Initiative to help address the legal needs of low-income immigrants experiencing financial problems that hinder economic independence.  This work was initially supported by the Emma Lazarus Fund and the Joyce Mertz-Gilmore Foundation.

In 2001, thanks to generous support from the Open Society Institute, NCLC expanded this project. Our program for Immigrant Justice in the Consumer Marketplace promises great benefit, both because of its intent to reduce the devastating effects of consumer abuses on America’s immigrant and refugee populations, and because of its focus on improving the legal services delivery system for immigrants who need help combating marketplace abuses.

NCLC worked with state and local immigrant advocates, helping to develop bridges between these groups and pro bono and legal services attorneys.  We work with local legal services, pro bono groups, and private attorneys to expand the pool of attorneys specifically trained in consumer law issues that affect immigrants and refugees. In 2001, we concentrated our efforts in two cities, Philadelphia and Chicago.

In 2003, we focused on building the project nationally, encouraging and supporting other immigrant advocates and attorneys across the country in establishing similar programs.

For more information about building a project in your community click here.