1. United States
2. Fla.
3. Letter

Urgent need: Saving DOJ Funding for CASA/GAL Court-appointed advocates serving mostly children in foster care impacted by Dependency Cases.   I have just been shocked to learn there is a serious threat to more than 300 *ongoing* grants affecting at-risk youth, among other important community needs including crime victim advocacy and mental healthcare for police officers. 
I am requesting that you immediately contact the Department of Justice to inquire about the award terminations and express your concern about the impact of this far-reaching decisi on communities.   Specifically, I am calling your attention to CASA/GAL programs across the country and the children and youth served.   Here in Miami-Dade, the Guardian Ad Litem program plays a crucial role that is irreplaceable, training and coordinating court-appointed volunteer advocates for children in the court system. These are typically youngsters who are in foster care often removed from their parents due to abuse or neglect.   I have dedicated many volunteer hours to Guardian Ad Litem and can attest that it is invaluable.  You can ask any local Judge who will vouch for this.   Thank you in advance for your assistance and your support.