Mississippi Center for Justice
The Mississippi Center for Justice is a nonprofit, public interest law firm committed to advancing racial and economic justice through advocacy for systemic change. The center opened in 2003 and has offices in Jackson and Biloxi, Miss. The Center engages the services of pro bono attorneys from across the United States. The Center has been at the forefront of federal and state policy battles to restore safe and affordable housing to survivors of Hurricane Katrina.
THE CASE
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A grant was made relating to Lowe v. South Regional Housing Authority, a case brought by the Mississippi Center for Justice to prevent implementation of dramatic rent increases for 250 families living in public housing in disregard of state law that defines the amount of rent a public housing authority can assess. Since the rent increases became effective, more than 60 plaintiffs have had to move because they could not afford their monthly rents.
CASE UPDATES SINCE GRANT YEAR
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Lowe v. South Delta Regional Housing Authority
Filed a successful suit to stop rent increases at a housing project with 250 tenants in the Mississippi Delta. The case settled resulting in lower rents and better maintenance.
GRANT AMOUNT
$2,500 (2011)
“Having the Barbara McDowell Foundation’s assistance at the end of the case allowed us to effectively represent our clients in the litigation, resulting in a favorable resolution.”
– Martha Bergmark, President