When children are legally removed from their homes for their safety, they may face uncertainty regarding where they will live, custody battles, where to attend school and more. Texas CASA works with 74 local programs across the state, which train volunteers to become trusted adults and a source of stability in each child’s life as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA).
As a CASA, a volunteer advocates for the child’s safety and well-being. They get to know the child and their family or caretakers as well as teachers, coaches, and anyone who is an important part of the child’s life. The CASA represents the child’s best interests in communicating with attorneys, social workers and judges.
Local CASA Programs
Programs around Houston include the following organizations:
- Child Advocates - Houston/Harris County
- Gulf Coast CASA - Brazoria, Wharton, Matagorda Counties
- Find other CASA programs across Texas here
How You Can Help
Learn more about how to volunteer as a CASA at www.becomeacasa.org.
Many local CASA programs have Amazon wish lists and fundraising events to support children in their communities, allowing individuals and corporate groups to give at a variety of levels. You can donate directly through the above links. Learn how you can help Texas CASA support local programs and advance advocacy for children in foster care statewide here.
April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month
Child Advocates of Fort Bend shares some of the signs of child abuse and neglect on their website. The page also includes resources for children, parents and teachers.
To learn more about how to report abuse, visit the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services website or call 1-800-252-5400. In any emergency situation, call 9-1-1.
HOUSTON LIFE APPEARANCE: How you can volunteer to be a trusted voice for youth in foster care with Texas CASA
Texas CASA is dedicated to raising awareness around child abuse and neglect all month long. Find ideas on how you can help raise awareness here. Friday, April 10 is Go Blue Day. Texans are encouraged to wear blue that day to show their support for ending child abuse and neglect.
KPRC 2 and our partners at Energy Transfer and Houston Christian University are proud to feature Texas CASA in our KPRC 2 Community April spotlight.