Open navigation menu. Close navigation menu.

Nothing should stop a kid from being a kid.

Every child should have a chance to learn, grow and thrive in school and at home. But injustices stemming from racism, poverty and trauma have placed a heavy burden on our community, meaning not all kids have the same opportunities. By providing legal assistance and advocating for systemic reform, we can help balance the scales, bring joy to those who need it most and let kids be kids.

50,000+ children and families reached since 1996.

$10,000 average reduced Medicaid costs when we resolve unhealthy housing issues.

50+ laws created or changed that improve the lives of DC children.

How We Work

Our team of lawyers, social workers and investigators are dedicated to giving each child they meet a fighting chance. And we extend our impact through the strategic work of our policy, communications and appellate teams.

Family with masks at playground

We fight so every DC child can grow up with:

We increase our impact and reach by:

  • Individual Assistance

    We’ve reached more than 50,000 children and families over the past 27 years – helping them tackle seemingly insurmountable problems.

  • Pro Bono Partnerships

    Our pro bono lawyers achieve real results for children and families in need and extend our impact in the community.

  • Systemic Reform

    We partner with District agencies, the DC Council and community organizations to find and implement city-wide solutions and systemic changes that benefit all DC kids.

Children's Law Center logo inside graphic shapes.

Read Our 2022 Annual Report

The children and families we serve balance many moving pieces in their lives. While they may first come to us for help on one issue, we often find other pieces that need to come together to create the picture they want to build. Learn how we worked to create new possibilities for DC children and families in 2022.

Two children playing in park.

Strategic Framework

2023 marks an exciting opportunity to increase our impact for years to come. Read our new mission, vision and 2023-2027 strategic framework.

Event

2023 Helping Children Soar Benefit

On September 28th, we gathered at District Winery on the Anacostia waterfront for our annual Benefit!

Ways to Give

Children’s Law Center depends on the generosity of individuals, corporations, and foundations to make our work possible. As a result of their support, we are able to continue fighting – and winning – for thousands of DC’s children and families.