In the fall of 2011, due to the loss of over 2 million dollars in annual federal and state funding, Legal Aid of North Carolina or LANC closed its Boone Office among others across the state.  The 70,000 local residents who are financially eligible for legal assistance from LANC are now served by offices in Morganton and Winston-Salem.  Of the 7 northwest North Carolina counties, Morganton is serving 4 counties, and the Winston-Salem office is serving Alleghany, Ashe, and Wilkes.  LANC is a state-wide, non-profit law firm that provides free legal services in civil matters to low-income individuals to prevent homelessness or displacement and protecting domestic violence victims.  Those in Wilkes needing LANC assistance may call 1-866-219-5262 or go online www.legalaidnc.org.