Mission: Western Center on Law & Poverty leads the fight in the court, counties and capital to secure housing, healthcare and a strong safety net for low-income Californians. Western Center on Law & Poverty was formed in 1967 by a passionate group of attorneys and legal scholars from USC, UCLA and Loyola law schools who sought to create a unique organization, driven by the belief that low-income Californians deserve the finest possible legal representation before every institution that shapes their lives.

For over five decades, Western Center has advocated on behalf of Californians experiencing poverty in every branch of government. Today Western Center's cutting edge advocacy, litigation and educational work are supported by private donations, foundation grants, and attorney fee awards. Western Center receives no federal funding.

Western Center on Law & Poverty is a 501(c)(3) organization, with an IRS ruling year of 1974, and donations are tax-deductible.