Federal Pullback Leaves Foster Agencies Fighting for Resources

As of April 1, Sacramento County is home to 1,136 children within its foster care system, as highlighted by the California Child Welfare Indicators Project’s latest point-in-time assessment. These vulnerable youth are beginning to feel the impact of significant federal funding reductions since January.Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Sacramento serves approximately 300 of these children. CEO Tiffany Sickler reports that the uncertainty caused by these cuts, particularly regarding federal grants, has disrupted their operations. An executive order previously slashed $40 million in funding for the National CASA organization, crucial for supporting local CASA programs.While grant funding was reinstated on August 6, CASA Sacramento must reconsider its fiscal strategies moving forward. Sickler notes the vital role of volunteer advocates who provide essential emotional support to foster children, often becoming their only unmonetized relationship. As various organizations face uncertainties, community support continues to grow, emphasizing the necessity for collaboration among nonprofits to navigate the challenging funding landscape effectively.