LSNYC Helps Veterans Stay in Their Homes

Abdiel, an Air Force veteran who served in the Desert Storm/Desert Shield conflict, was diagnosed with disabilities related to his service and began receiving disability benefits and services from the VA. For years, his landlord had been trying to drive him out of his apartment, including giving Abdiel a weekly lease as a way to charge him more. When his landlord first moved to evict him claiming unpaid rent, Abdiel, without a lawyer, was able to prove he was being overcharged. But his landlord persisted.

On another attempt, the landlord claimed he needed the apartment for personal use for one of his family members. Abdiel’s VA counselor, however, had heard of Legal Services NYC’s Veterans Justice Project and referred him to us for legal help. After  reviewing Abdiel’s case, we were able to prove that the landlord was a corporation, not a person, and got his fraudulent claim dismissed. 

“I could not have done this on my own,” Abdiel said. “I want to thank Legal Services NYC and their pro bono partners, not only for helping me, but for helping so many others like me. Their Veteran’s Justice Program has helped tens of thousands of veterans get the help they need and continues to create new programs and pathways for veterans to access their vital services.”

Abdiel, now safely in his apartment, was able to achieve his dream of becoming a small business owner which he continues to grow to this day.

“I cannot tell you what a huge relief it was to have Legal Services NYC there by my side. After a hard day at work, to come home and see a court notice on your door is extremely difficult. But Legal Services NYC was able to help me stay in my affordable apartment, which provided me relief, security, and peace of mind. It allowed me to function without having to endure the stress and fear of not having a roof over my head. No one should have to fear becoming homeless even once, much less over and over again. Having an apartment where I can sleep and feel safe at the end of the day has been so important throughout my rehabilitation.”

Abdiel Joseph, a veteran, client, and former LSNYC board member

Get Help

Learn more about our veterans and housing practices.

For free legal help, call Legal Services NYC at 917-661-4500 Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Learn more about our intake process here.