Paris, Tenn.–Henry County Juvenile Judge Vicki Snyder spoke to the Paris Quota Club about programs for children in the local court: CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), Foster Care and Safe Baby Court.
CASA is a fairly new program in Henry County and there are currently 20 volunteers in the program. Judge Snyder said more volunteers are needed and that the CASA volunteer serves a critical role in finding a safe and permanent solution for children and their input is highly regarded among attorneys and judges.
She also talked to the group about Foster Care. There are approximately 40-50 children in foster care in Henry County; although there have been as many as 100. Paris Vice Mayor Jackie Jones is the chair of the Foster Care Review Board and she welcomes volunteers for this much-needed program.
Safe Baby Court has been in effect since January, 2020. This is designed for children 0-3 years of age who have been removed from the home. Parents are offered financial and social service for learning parenting skills. For children in any of these 3 programs; there are 3 possible outcomes –back home, residence with relatives or adoption.
Judge Snyder answered many questions from Quotarians following her presentation.