CASA Quarterly Newsletter
-Summer 2020-
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Like many other organizations, CASA has had to change, adapt, and update delivery of services; but that hasn't prevented the organization from assigning advocates to 6 children in the last 2 months. Although introductions were held via Zoom, advocates have eagerly embraced virtual visits with their newly-assigned youth.
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Although the upcoming academic year looks vastly different this fall, our youth will be provided with brand-new, JanSport backpacks filled with creature comforts, hygiene kits, and extra goodies courtesy of the Baxter family, completely stocked with school supplies, courtesy of
Kelley Engineering & Surveying
, as well as a pair of cozy pajamas from the
Diane Diaz Hopkins Insurance
PJ Drive. During this time of uncertainty, w
e are deeply appreciative to our community for helping to set the stage for academic success for foster youth.
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A Commitment to Foster Youth
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We are pleased to share CASA was recently honored with a significant
donation
from local business
Charles River Labs
.
Company employees have a long history of involvement with CASA; from lunchtime fundraisers, to collecting and wrapping pajamas, games, and gift cards for youth during the holidays.
Click to read more
.
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This young man's CASA was there every step of the way, encouraging his interest in sports, providing him the opportunity to meet one of his personal heroes, and supporting increased communication and bonding between he and his mother.
During his time in out-of-home care, his mom went above and beyond to complete the necessary steps and seek additional support to become the independent and dedicated parent she knew she could be.
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We are so grateful to our CASA for supporting this young man and his mother in their successful reunification, and wish them all the best!
To read more stories of impact,
click here
or follow us on social media:
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California Extends Aid for
Aging-out Foster Youth
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"After a long battle over the budget, the California Legislature and Gov. Gavin Newsom agreed on a deal on Monday, clearing the way for a landmark plan to extend foster care benefits to many youth after their 21st birthday.
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"The state budget deal reached Monday (June 23rd) includes $32 million for foster youth who turn 21 between April 17 – when the governor issued an executive order temporarily suspending the age limit on foster care benefits – through June 30, 2021. During that time, young people in extended foster care from ages 18
through 21 also have temporary relief from work and study requirements." Read the full article
here
.
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Could You Open Your Heart...
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At this time, our greatest need is for advocates. Children are still entering foster care, and we are expecting those numbers to increase as the state reopens.
Children and youth need a caring, consistent adult to assist in navigating one of the most difficult times in their life. Learn more at
casasanbenito.org
or 831-637-4992.
Please help us spread the word!
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An additional challenge CASA faces in its ability to serve children is the lack of foster homes in San Benito County. This means children are not only removed from their families, but from their entire community as well; friends, teachers, and classmates.
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Postponed: Sip, Savor & Celebrate
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It is with regret the CASA Events Committee has chosen to postpone annual Sip, Savor & Celebrate fundraiser scheduled for October 3, 2020 to May of 2021. This difficult decision was made with the health and safety of our community members and supporters in mind, along with guidance provided from the state regarding group gatherings. It is our hope our community will be in a much healthier position next spring, and we look forward to celebrating child advocacy with you then.
Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact CASA at 831-637-4992.
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Despite the many challenges we've collectively faced these past few months, we want to acknowledge how grateful and humbled we are by your continued support and commitment to CASA and foster children from San Benito County. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you!
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