Our Mission

The Hawkins Center works to improve the health and financial stability of people with disabilities. In partnership with service organizations, The Hawkins Center provides high quality legal, social, and educational services, and advocates for changes in policy. In all its programs, the agency promotes dignity, respect, and fairness for people with disabilities.

Seventy percent of The Hawkins Center s clients lack the basic resources they need to stabilize their lives. Many are disabled after years of work. More than half have mental disabilities. The majority has multiple problems related to medical or mental health, housing or homelessness, poverty, and hunger. Many have become physically disabled after years of work. A large percentage is illiterate; many don t speak English well or at all.

Our dream is that all people with disabilities lead enriched and fulfilling lives, with ample income, healthcare, and access to support services.

The Hawkins Center combines expert legal assistance with educational and social support services in a holistic manner. While attorneys help clients to apply for Social Security benefits, a social worker on staff helps clients to meet additional needs for shelter, food, clothing, transportation, counseling, crisis intervention, and medical and psychiatric treatment. This holistic approach supports clients through the process of applying for Social Security and disability benefits, and results in access to cash and health care for people who are too disabled to work.

Since its inception, The Hawkins Center has represented more than two thousand people with disabilities, obtaining benefits and MediCal/Medicare entitlement for at least 85% of these clients. More than ten thousand callers have received free legal advice through the Helpline. Currently, The Hawkins Center assists more than two hundred disability claimants, more than one hundred thirty persons with HIV/AIDS, and more than 1,200 telephone callers each year.

The Hawkins Center s Legal Division provides justice for people with disabilities.

The Social Security Program helps people to obtain Social Security disability benefits. Legal fees for Social Security disability claims are based on a percentage of the client s disability award, and are paid only if the client recovers benefits.

The HIV Legal Services Program resolves a wide array of civil legal problems for people with HIV/AIDS in Contra Costa and Alameda Counties. These legal services are provided free of charge.

To improve the health and quality of life of our Social Security clients, the Social Work Division provides support both during and after the benefits application process, including crisis intervention, information and referral, brief services, and intensive case management. All social work services are provided free of charge.

The Community Education Division expands knowledge of issues related to disability for individuals and service providers through community education presentations. Social service providers and community groups interested in disability issues are welcome to inquire about presentations.

The Helpline is a free telephone service that provides brief legal advice, information, and referral regarding Social Security and disability benefits. Just call (510) 232-6611 to have your questions answered.

The Advocacy Division increases access to services and benefits that improve the health and well being of people with disabilities. The Benefits Planning, Assistance, and Outreach Program enables people who receive Social Security disability benefits to make informed decisions about returning to work. If you contemplate a return to work after a period of disability, contact The Hawkins Center for free assistance in planning this transition.

Anyone with a disability is eligible for services at The Hawkins Center, regardless of income.

The Hawkins Center

101 Broadway Avenue, Suite 1

Richmond, CA 94804-1911

(510) 232-6611

info@hawkinscenter.org