NEWS RELEASE: Texas CASA Remains Strong as National Program Faces Federal Funding Cuts 

AUSTIN, Texas – The Department of Justice (DOJ) withdrew federal grant funding from more than 360 agencies, including the National Court Appointed Special Advocates and Guardian ad Litem (National CASA/GAL), impacting its ability to offer training, technical assistance, and subawards. This federal decision affects National CASA/GAL operations, but Texas CASA’s funding and unwavering support for local programs continue without interruption. 

“We recognize that cuts to NCASA/GAL are a part of a broad grant reduction affecting many organizations this year, and we’re disappointed that critical services to American children and families are being affected by these changes,” said Texas CASA CEO Vicki Spriggs. “Our confidence in the respect and trust we’ve built with our Texas judges, lawmakers, and community over the past 35 years is unshakeable. CASA programs are, and will remain, a cornerstone of the Texas child welfare system.” 

NCASA/GAL announced that their Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) funding will no longer continue in a statement on April 23, 2025. NCASA/GAL plans to appeal the termination given that their work is in alignment with DOJ’s goal to protect American children.  

National CASA/GAL is the membership organization of all CASA/GAL programs in the United States, and nationwide CASA organizations structures vary. 

In Texas, Texas CASA is the state membership organization for all local CASA programs. Each program operates as an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit and each program receives funding via Texas CASA’s disbursement formula as members and raise money on their own. NCASA/GAL’s OJJDP funding is not a primary source of any Texas CASA funding or subawards to local programs. 

Texas CASA and the state network of CASA programs remain committed to quality advocacy for Texas children and families. We will continue our support to the local programs, which will continue to recruit, train and support volunteers. 

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About Texas CASA 

Established in 1989, Texas CASA’s mission is to support local CASA programs with training, community awareness, resources and public policy to make a positive difference in the lives of children and families in Texas. We are the statewide membership association for all local CASA programs. In this role, we support the CASA network by serving as the administrator of state and federal funds, setting and monitoring standards, providing training, leading a statewide volunteer recruitment campaign, advocating for public policy and more. Texas CASA is committed to partnering with statewide stakeholders and the CASA network to elevate best practices when working with children and families.

Collectively, the local CASA programs serve the majority of Texas’ 254 counties. As integral members of their respective communities, they recruit, train, supervise and support court-appointed volunteers to advocate for the best interest of children. Local programs also coordinate and collaborate with other service providers who share the mission of supporting Texas families.

Contact:
Larissa Cartwright, Chief External Relations Officer
Phone: 214-490-8687
Email: lcartwright@texascasa.org

Madi Donham, External Communications Manager
Phone: 281-750-9117
Email: mdonham@texascasa.org