Court Appointed Special Advocates for the Highland Lakes Area is seeking immediate emergency funds to help maintain its level of staff and services.

CASA suffered almost $34,000 in state and federal grant funding cuts and is struggling to raise enough money to maintain current staffing, said a CASA representative.

The budget shortfall, combined with decreased donations due to a troubled economy, has hurt the charitable organization that serves Blanco, Burnet, Lampasas, Llano and San Saba counties.

"CASA programs are fiscally responsible, and serve an important role in aiding abused and neglected children, judicial systems and communities," said the spokesman.

Texas mandates that children removed from their homes due to abuse and/or neglect, be appointed a guardian ad litem for as long as they are in state care. "This could mean months but often results in years. And the loss of CASA services would result in taxpayers paying for mandated ad-litems."

Government funding for victim services has been significantly cut nationwide, greatly impacting social service agencies that aid and provide services to victims.

CASA utilizes trained volunteers to advocate for and represent the child during the legal process to find them safe, permanent homes. CASA staff and volunteers provide one-on-one contact with children; address medical, dental, emotional and educational needs; represent children in court; and seek permanent placement options.

"Most importantly, CASA volunteers are stable, trusting adults that children can rely on and trust to advocate for their best interest," said the spokesman.

In 2007, CASA volunteers gave over 6,200 hours and more than 26,000 miles, saving taxpayers nearly $455,000.

In 2008, CASA volunteers have reported 6,100 service hours and over 85,000 miles, with an estimated taxpayer savings to date of close to $479,000.

CASA is seeking support from citizens and businesses through general donations, event sponsorships or gift-in-kind donations.

To raise funds, CASA's Speak Up for Kids 5K and Fun Day at the Park is set Nov. 22 at Johnson Park in Marble Falls, and the annual CASA Fund-raiser Gala is slated Feb. 21 at Horseshoe Bay Resort.

Donations can be mailed to CASA, 1719 Ridgeview, Kingsland, TX 78639. Phone (325) 388-3440 or visit www.highlandlakescasa.org for information.