LAKEVIEW — A new weekly clinic starting Wednesday will provide free legal services and counseling on LGBTQ issues.
Howard Brown Health Center, 4025 N. Sheridan Road, is offering legal assistance for its clients through a partnership with the Legal Assistance Foundation and AIDS Legal Council of Chicago.
From 1 to 5 p.m. on Wednesdays, referred patients can schedule 30-minute appointments with a legal advocate to discuss civil legal matters like how to change a name on a driver's license or options available when facing eviction.
"Having to choose between paying your bills or paying for your medicine is a dilemma that no one should have to face. And we know that choosing the former can have disastrous health consequences," said Michelle Wetzel, the center's senior vice president of business development, in a statement.
Since 1987, the AIDS Legal Council of Chicago has helped LGBTQ people deal with prejudices rooted in the early years of the AIDS epidemic. From workplace discrimination to children being kicked out of school, the council assisted clients with issues unique to those with HIV. LAF provides free legal assistance for people living in poverty.
With the new Howard Brown clinic, clients can receive legal advice, representation or referrals to another specialized legal resource.
"We believe that everyone deserves equal access to legal assistance. Through this unique partnership, we hope to address the legal problems that may present barriers to HBHC patients in getting the care they need," said Ruth Edwards, HIV project director at AIDS Legal Council of Chicago.
To schedule an appointment, clients can call 773-388-1600 or be referred by their Howard Brown medical provider, therapist or case manager.
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