A local non-profit serving victims of child abuse and neglect in Fannin County has received word in recent weeks that grant funding is being cut. The Fannin County Children’s Center did not receive one state grant. Four other state and federal grants are being decreased for the new fiscal year too. All the cuts added up to about $68,000 in all.
“Fortunately, we will be able to avoid any lay-offs by not filling a current vacancy,” said Sandy Barber, Executive Director. “We have been working on restructuring our organization and shifting some job duties around to minimize disruption of services to the children, youth and families we serve.”
“The Children’s Center has been blessed with strong community support since we started serving children in 1993. We are asking our community to help us get through this challenging time,” said Barber.
“One way that individuals can help is by becoming a monthly donor,” said Barber. “The easiest way to do this is to donate on our website and set your gift to be automatically reoccurring. Many people giving monthly gifts of $10, $25 or more add up quickly.”
The Center has also started seeking sponsors and auction items for their annual gala fundraiser called “Justice Is Served.” This year’s event will be a hybrid event Nov 10-13, with options to attend in-person at the Complex on Saturday night and participate virtually online. Event details are available on their website, including sponsorship levels and auction items donation forms.
“In 2007, we experienced a similar challenge when we lost a major grant,” said Barber. “Fortunately, this community responded generously and we were able to weather that storm. We are hopeful we can do that again. Whether you donate a baked good or other item for our auction, increase your sponsorship level of Justice Is Served, become a monthly donor, or make a one-time gift, your help is needed and will be appreciated.”
Barber recounted a story of how in 2007, Nobles Resources, a local company providing pest control services to the center heard of their situation and pledged to provide their services for free for one year. At the end of that year, they decided to continue that contribution and have been doing that ever since.
The mission of the Fannin County Children’s Center is promoting safety and improving the lives of abused and neglected children. The center’s programs include CASA and the Children’s Advocacy Center. Services include advocacy, forensic interviews, counseling, court accompaniment and other support to help victims of child abuse heal, grow and thrive.
For more information or to make an online donation, go to www.FanninCCC.org or call (903) 583-4339.