Dan and Jennifer Gilbert are joining efforts to provide lawyers for Detroiters at risk of eviction.
The Gilberts in 2016. (Photo: North American International Auto Show)
Their family foundation will give up to $13 million over three years to set up a new Detroit Eviction Defense Fund, according to Crain's Detroit Business and other media.
An analysis of 30,000 eviction cases from 36th District Court showed that just 4 percent of tenants had representation in defense of eviction filings, while 83 percent of landlords did.
The business mogul and his spouse reinforce a city council vote two weeks ago, when members voted 7-2 for a right-to-counsel program assuring that qualifying Detroiters have an attorney for eviction and foreclosure hearings. It'll be financed with $6 million in federal Covid aid and charitable help such as the Gilberts' gift.
Eviction defense providers say $16.7 million is needed, according to Crain's.
Related:
'A historic day:' Low-income Detroiters facing eviction or foreclosure will get free lawyers, May 11
