In Partnership with the Campaign to End Debtor’s Prison (CEDP)
Donate to our Fines and Fees Fund here!
THE PROBLEM:
Many individuals are unable to pay off or pay down court fines and fees.
This creates barriers that prevent them from being self-sufficient. These individuals do not have the financial stability to pay the financial burden that accompanies an infraction, violation, or misdemeanor. When such a financial obligation occurs and goes unpaid it can result in a warrant for one’s arrest. This often causes a spiraling effect leading one to homelessness due to a lack of ability to solve the core problem of an unpaid fine.
OUR GOAL:
To assist individuals who currently are unable to afford to pay off their court-issued fines in order to minimize homelessness in Delaware.
FH and CEDP want to break the cycle of homelessness caused by a court-issued fine to a person living in poverty. Many people can be crippled with unpaid fines and fees issued by a court. Most Americans do not have the financial capability to pay off an unplanned financial obligation. We are seeking to ease this burden and enable these individuals to lift a significant barrier in their way from seeking a self-sufficient living.
OUR STRATEGY:
FH and CEDP have taken the initiative to create a fund for people affected by fines and fees.
We will do this in partnership with the Campaign to End Debtor’s Prison in Delaware, a group of advocates that are working towards legal change. The funding will be used to pay off an entire fee or to pay partial down payments allowing the individual to start a monthly payment plan with the court. FH will use its current financial assistance process which includes verifying the amount due, confirming the payment will in fact improve the person’s situation and budget with the person to ensure they can maintain the monthly payments when a payment arrangement has been made. When needed, once a fine or fee has been paid, FH will then work with the person to obtain the person’s state identification, assist them with their job search, and help reintegrate that person back to self-sufficient living.
ASSISTANCE REQUEST:
If you are in need of assistance or representing someone who needs assistance, please call 302-482-2271 or fill out our Request Form.
Check Donations: Please include your designation request with your check. The check can be made out to Friendship House, Inc. and mailed to P.O. Box 1517 Wilmington, DE 19899.
Special thank you to our supporters!!
