Funding Crisis Threatens Vital Supervised Visitation Program
October 17, 2024 | Deschutes County, Oregon
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Currently, 62.5% of the funding is allocated to mediation, while 37.5% supports Mary's Place. However, concerns were raised that upcoming budget constraints may jeopardize this funding arrangement. The Oregon Judicial Department, which oversees the allocation of these funds, is facing challenges in meeting the basic mediation needs across the state, leading to uncertainty about the future of financial support for Mary's Place.
The program, which has been a critical resource for families in need of supervised visitation, has received approximately $94,000 this fiscal year, accounting for about 12% of its budget. Officials noted that if funding is reduced, it could significantly impact the program's operations, which require an estimated $125,000 annually to function effectively.
Deschutes County is reportedly the only county in Oregon that provides dedicated funding for supervised visitation, raising concerns about the lack of a broader coalition to advocate for continued support. While there may be other counties utilizing similar funds for related services, none appear to offer the same level of support for supervised visitation.
As discussions continue, local officials expressed hope for maintaining funding but acknowledged the need for a sustainable financial strategy moving forward. The situation remains fluid, with potential implications for families relying on these essential services.
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