Neighborhood Legal Services, Inc.
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nlsinc716.bsky.social
Neighborhood Legal Services, Inc.
@nlsinc716.bsky.social
63 followers 66 following 570 posts
We are a nonprofit agency dedicated to providing free legal services and equitable justice to persons with low-income and persons with disabilities in WNY. Housing, family, benefits, health insurance & student loans.
https://linktr.ee/nls716
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Preventing an eviction isn’t always possible, and it’s not always the best outcome either. Sometimes, the best outcome for a client is to delay the eviction, giving them time to seek alternate housing. Such was the case for “Esther.”
Esther's story in a quote bubble with icons of justice scales and figures giving each other a high five. It was “all hands on deck” for an elderly Justice Bus client facing eviction this month. Once our advocate got involved, we were able to buy Esther more time to remain in her home while she looked for alternate housing. But the story doesn’t end with us! When it came time to move, several community partners stepped in to help - Northtown Care Connection provided the van, trailer, and driver; CMDA (the Christian Medical and Dental Association) was able to pull together some individuals to do the lifting of the heavy furniture, and Buffalo Project Lab organized the move out! Teamwork ALWAYS makes the dream work ✨
February 3, 2026 at 6:30 PM
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From intern to staff attorney, Jahna has been a driving force in promoting justice and building connections with the Niagara County community.

#EmployeeSpotlight #Niagara #FamilyLaw
Employee Spotlight: Jahna Mott MSW, Esq. Staff Attorney - Family Law. On blue background with a photo of Jahna. Call to Service: Right from the beginning, Jahna knew they wanted to help people and make a difference in their lives. Like many of our other advocates, their journey started in studies of social work, but after one fateful class focused on policy at a more macro level, they pivoted to exploring other options. The MSW/JD program at UB seemed to be the perfect fit. From the Books to the Streets: While going to school full-time, Jahna was also involved in a number of volunteer and non-profit opportunities, including a summer at NLS. She’d always been community-focused, but these experiences opened her eyes to many of the challenges and resource limitations that Niagara County residents faced. Community Connections: Because everything is so spread out, from North Tonawanda to Lockport to the Falls, it’s much more difficult for individuals and families in Niagara County to locate and access vital resources and services. Jahna remains intensely motivated to creating connections and sharing information with partner organizations and providers in the area. For example, they have been working with groups that aid survivors of domestic violence, providing training on how to draft family offense petitions/orders of protection, increasing safety and security for survivors all across the county. Impacting Lives: Jahna was drawn to family law for the opportunity to work directly with families and individuals, to hear their stories, and to empower them to take action to improve their lives. And it’s not always easy - abusers will find almost any way to perpetuate their abuse. One recent case that has stuck with her involved a client whose ex has been weaponizing the court system against her, dragging her repeatedly back to respond to constant petitions and modifications. Through vigorous advocacy and support, she’ll soon be able to move out-of-state, to begin anew and start healing. Theater Kids Unite: As a former theater kid, Jahna was super excited to see Wicked in Syracuse this year, and is also a huge fan of karaoke. Their go-to song? “If I Ain’t Got You,” by Alicia Keys. Rescue Parent: After bringing their partner’s two cats home to live with their own two surrendered cats, Jahna thought her family was complete for the moment. The Cat Distribution System disagreed. When their neighbor abandoned their cat outside, Maple decided it was time to join the household. Are these five cats enough? The universe has yet to decide! Photos of Jahna's 5 cats.
February 3, 2026 at 4:01 PM
Reposted by Neighborhood Legal Services, Inc.
feedmorewny.org
Our SNAP Outreach Team will be at the following events this month to answer questions and assist with SNAP eligibility and application assistance.

You can also reach our SNAP Outreach team at www.feedmorewny.org/snap-resourc...
February 2, 2026 at 6:22 PM
nlsinc716.bsky.social
We've got a full week of #Justice coming your way 👉
Upcoming events calendar, week of February 2-8 on blue background with snowflakes. Monday February 2: Veterans Walk-In Clinic, 8:30 AM - 4 PM, Health Care for Homeless Veterans, Buffalo and Know Your Rights Workshop, 5 PM - 7 PM, Elizabeth Harvey Apartments, North Tonawanda. Tuesday February 3: Daybreak Walk-In Session, 9 AM - 12 PM, Heart Love and Soul, Niagara Falls; Know Your Rights Workshop, 10 AM - 1 PM, Tri-Main Center, Buffalo; and Social Justice Expo, 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM, Hilbert College, Hamburg. Wednesday February 4: Thrift Store Workshop, 11 AM - 2 PM, Main Street Corner Thrift, Albion. Friday February 6: Tenant Rights Town Hall, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM, Merriweather Library, Buffalo. Saturday February 7: Say Yes! Saturday Academy, 10 AM - 1 PM, West Hertel Academy, Buffalo.
February 2, 2026 at 4:05 PM
nlsinc716.bsky.social
Happy #BlackHistoryMonth ! There is no present without the past, and no future without the present, and this month, we honor and recognize all the people who have worked tirelessly to make our world a better place.
Black History Month written in red, yellow, and green over a black background. A Black hand raised in a fist is wrapped in green, red, and yellow stripes like a ribbon.
February 2, 2026 at 3:02 PM
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Every day's a new adventure! Student interns at NLS Batavia have the opportunity to visit housing court 🏠, draft disability briefs ♿, help families seeking petitions 👩‍🍼 - and more!

Apply for the Rural Summer Legal Corps at nls.org/about/careers
Careers - Neighborhood Legal Services, Inc.
Browse open careers across WNY at Neighborhood Legal Services. We're seeking qualified applicants looking to make a difference in the community.
nls.org
January 30, 2026 at 6:02 PM
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#FreeAdviceFriday
When Social Security sends you too much money, it's not a blessing. This #Overpayment can wreak havoc on your financials - but you have options!
January 30, 2026 at 3:45 PM
nlsinc716.bsky.social
#TBT 1971, when NLS was still part of the Legal Aid of Buffalo, the organization may have been overworked and underfunded, but at the same time, dedicated and hopeful for the future. Same as it ever was.
Buffalo News article from 1971: Legal Aid Bureau Works Hard for the Poor, Handles 12,700 cases in Year by Kathy Kelly. Describes how legal aid is often the last resort for people but our team has been there for the community (as Legal Aid of Buffalo) since 1912 and continues to work against underfunding and understaffing.
January 29, 2026 at 3:30 PM
Reposted by Neighborhood Legal Services, Inc.
buffaloresearch.com
Coming up next month at the Central Library on Lafayette Square! I already put it on my calendar, Feb. 19, 6:30 PM.
#Buffalo
🗃️📚
buffalolib.libcal.com/event/15939971
City of Distant Neighbors: Histories of Segregation in Buffalo with James Coughlin
Presented by James J. Coughlin of Burning Books. No registration required—free and open to the public! This engaging and accessible history explores Buffalo’s racial...
buffalolib.libcal.com
January 27, 2026 at 9:21 PM
nlsinc716.bsky.social
Cold weather is predicted all week. If you need assistance keeping your heat on, don't hesitate to call our Utility Hotline - we can help prevent a shutoff!
Benefits alert on orange and yellow background with megaphone. If you have a shutoff notice and need help, call our office and ask for the utility hotline and/or apply for emergency utility assistance at your local DSS office. Utility Disconnect Hotline phone numbers: 716.847.0650 Erie, 716.201.0046 Niagara. QR code linking to nls.org for more info.
January 27, 2026 at 4:24 PM
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Receiving a denial on your disability benefits application doesn't have to be the end of the line! It's not always the easiest to make sure your application tells your story accurately.

#Disability #Benefits #FairHearing
Hands surrounding the handicapped symbol with our phone numbers listed by county: 716.847.0650 Erie County 716.284.8831 Niagara Falls 716.201.0046 Lockport 585.343.5450 Genesee, Orleans, and Wyoming County
January 27, 2026 at 3:30 PM
nlsinc716.bsky.social
When you're feeling low, please remember, your community is here for you! Whether you need information, resources, or further assistance, don't hesitate to ask 💙
Upcoming events calendar in blue with stars. January 26: Walk-In Legal Clinic for Veterans, 8 AM - 4:30 PM, VA Health for Homeless Veterans, Buffalo and Community Resource Days, Jericho Road Community Health Center, Buffalo, 10 AM - 2 PM. January 29: Orleans County Resource Fair, Hoag Library, Albion, 10-1. January 30: Eastern Orleans Workshop, Eastern Orleans Community Center, Holley, 11-1. January 31: Say Yes Saturday Academy at PS #93 from 9-12 and PS #59 from 10-1. Details at nls.org/events
January 26, 2026 at 3:03 PM
nlsinc716.bsky.social
Due to the ongoing weather conditions, all NLS offices will be closed Monday, January 25th. If you're having a housing emergency, please call 2-1-1
Closed sign on a snowy background
January 26, 2026 at 1:31 AM
nlsinc716.bsky.social
As the largest provider of FREE civil legal services in our 5 county service area, NLS is committed to ensuring access to justice for our neighbors.
Farmhouse and barn with beautiful fall foliage. Across the country, 41% of counties are considered “legal deserts,” with few or no lawyers available to serve residents.
January 23, 2026 at 4:15 PM
nlsinc716.bsky.social
#FreeAdviceFriday
With so many corporate, LLC, and out-of-state property owners these days, it's not always the easiest to even know who your landlord is anymore!
January 23, 2026 at 2:56 PM
nlsinc716.bsky.social
#TBT The #RedNoseDay fundraising event had proved enormously popular in the UK, so why not try it here? In 2015, NBC did just that, hosting a star-studded program to raise funds for children facing poverty. And naturally, our NLS advocates were in full support!
Group of NLS team members all wearing red clown noses.
January 22, 2026 at 3:30 PM
nlsinc716.bsky.social
Sometimes, your life can change in an instant. If you need food assistance right away, expedited SNAP may be right for you.

#SNAP #PublicBenefits
Info graphic in green. Expedited SNAP - Do you qualify? When you apply for expedited SNAP benefits, you may receive them as early as the day after you apply. How do you know if you’re eligible? You must meet AT LEAST ONE of the following conditions: Resources- Your household has less than $100 in liquid resources (cash) AND has received less than $150 in gross income during the month of your application. Sheltering- Your sheltering costs (i.e. rent, mortgage plus utility costs) are higher than your resources and income for the month. Seasonal- If your household does seasonal or migrant farm work, you have less than $100 in liquid resources, and you meet the other SNAP eligibility requirements.
January 21, 2026 at 3:04 PM
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If you receive an eviction notice - DON'T PANIC! We can help!
NLS logo and image of shaking hands on a flyer for services. Facing Eviction? We can help! The Western New York Eviction Prevention Project (WNY-EPP) provides FREE legal help to financially-eligible tenants facing eviction. Our Services. Legal Advice: Helping you to understand your rights and options. Representation: Representing you in court appearances. Eviction Prevention: Working with you and your landlord to try to resolve problems and save your tenancy. Referrals: Providing information on other help and services available to you. Phone: 844.230.7376. Web: nls.org
January 20, 2026 at 3:15 PM
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Find us where you need us - with no appointment needed! We'll be available at resource fairs and workshops across WNY this week 🚐
#JusticeBus #KnowYourRights #CommunityOutreach
Upcoming events calendar week of January 19-24 with blue snowflake decorations. Tuesday January 20th: Daybreak Walk-In Session, 9 AM - 12 PM, Heart Love and Soul, Niagara Falls; Know Your Rights Workshop, 5 PM - 6:30 PM, at both Hamburg Library and Dudley Library. Wednesday January 21st: Fair Housing Presentation by LAW NY, 10 AM - 2 PM, First Presbyterian Church, Batavia. Thursday January 22nd: Wyoming County Pop-Up Pantry, 10 AM - 12 PM, Main St., Perry and Resource Connection Days, 10 AM - 12 PM, E. Ferry St., Buffalo.
January 19, 2026 at 2:05 PM
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All NLS offices will be closed today in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. We will reopen tomorrow at 9 am. If you have a housing emergency, please call 2-1-1
We are closed sign. See you tomorrow.
January 19, 2026 at 1:01 PM
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#FreeAdviceFriday
Moving can be stressful and EXPENSIVE, especially if it's sudden and unexpected.
January 16, 2026 at 2:56 PM
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#TBT Responding to the increased need for services and limited public transportation across Niagara County, NLS added a Lockport location, summer 2023.
NLS team members standing outside the Lockport office location pointing at the NLS sign.
January 15, 2026 at 2:15 PM
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Is your landlord refusing to make repairs?
Can you withhold rent?
Are you struggling to find a landlord who will accept your section 8?
Worried about eviction?
We're here to help!

#KnowYourRights #Housing #Eviction
Event flyer. Know Your Rights! FREE legal workshop, Tuesday January 20th, 5-6:30 pm. Learn more about: evictions, unsafe housing conditions, housing discrimination, housing emergencies, landlord/tenant concerns. At the Hamburg Public Library, 102 Buffalo St, Hamburg, NY 14075. Images of NLS team members at similar events with resources available, along with the logos for the Justice Bus and the Buffalo & Erie County Public Library.
January 14, 2026 at 5:30 PM
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Did you know? Every $1 spent on civil legal aid returns $7 in economic benefits to communities.
#LSCMatters #LegalAidMatters #NLSFightsBack

Eliminating LSC funding does not just harm individuals — it destabilizes entire communities and hurts local economies. Learn more at lsc.gov/act
For every $1 invested, civil legal aid returns an average of $7 back into the economy. Graphics of money and LSC logo. Link to lsc.gov/roi
January 14, 2026 at 3:31 PM
nlsinc716.bsky.social
In NYS, all custody, support & visitation matters MUST be settled before a divorce can be granted. In a contested divorce, these issues can be very stressful on all parties involved.
To protect your child's best interests, the court can appoint an Attorney for the Child (AFC).
#KnowYourRights
Know Your Rights on red background. Did you know? Your child has the RIGHT to an attorney in a contested divorce. An Attorney for the Child (AFC) will advocate on behalf of the child, giving them a voice and helping the court to determine what is best for the child. For more info and resources, visit nls.org
January 13, 2026 at 3:15 PM