Family Quote by Matthew Desmond
““For example, a program that ran from 2005 to 2008 in the South Bronx provided more than 1,300 families with legal assistance and prevented eviction in 86 percent of cases. It cost around $450,000, but saved New York City more than $700,000 in estimated shelter costs alone.37””
About This Quote
Source Report: Bronx Legal Aid Study, 2008
Providing low‑cost legal help to at‑risk families can prevent costly evictions and save public funds.
In simple terms: Legal aid prevents evictions and saves money.
Key Takeaway
Invest in community legal services.
Themes
housing
public policy
economics
social justice
Mood
pragmatic
analytical
Type
policy
economic
When to use this quote
- city housing policy
- non‑profit budgeting
- tenant advocacy
- municipal finance
Key Concepts
cost‑benefit analysis
preventive law
public finance
Questions to Reflect On
- How can cities scale such programs sustainably?
- What barriers prevent families from accessing legal aid?
A Different Perspective
Effectiveness depends on adequate funding and outreach.
