Wage Claim Project

Texas RioGrande Legal Aid - 070116

Abstract Number: 070116

November 2007

Texas RioGrande Legal Aid (TRLA) has created a Wage Claim Project (WCP) for the enforcement of wage and hour rights on behalf of low wage workers.  The WCP is partnering with established grassroots community groups to identify common schemes and trends in certain industries and develop strategic advocacy. The WCP provides direct services, technical assistance, referrals, and educational materials to the community partners.  TRLA attorneys and paralegals conduct trainings for staff at partner groups on how to identify wage violations and solutions, negotiate with employers, and represent workers in state administrative wage complaints.  The WCP launched a media campaign with public service announcements and radio and TV spots.  TRLA attorneys hold monthly workers' meetings at entrenched community centers and give Know Your Rights presentations. 

Also, WCP published outreach materials for workers, including flyers, an educational booklet, work registry, and an instructional manual for pro se litigants in small claims court.  These materials are distributed at targeted locations.  The WCP receives and provides referrals of wage and hour cases for litigation.  Partner organizations include La Unin del Pueblo Entero, South Texas Civil Rights Project, Casa de Proyecto Libertad, Valley Movement for Human Rights, Service Employees International Union, and the Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now (ACORN).    

TRLA has introduced this project in the Lower RioGrande Valley region of South Texas.  The goal is to pioneer and advance new models for protecting the rights of low wage workers that will be replicated in each branch office of TRLA.  Any LSC program could replicate this project with willing and active community organizations.

Contact Information

Kathryn J. Youker
Attorney at Law
Texas RioGrande Legal Aid, Inc.
300 South Texas Blvd.
Weslaco, TX  78596
Tel. (956) 447-4802
Fax (956) 968-8823
 KYouker@trla.org

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