CASA of Southwest Missouri facing federal funding cuts

A funding cut on the federal level is impacting Springfield-based Court Appointed Special Advocates of Southwest Missouri.

The local CASA chapter, which serves children in foster care in Greene, Christian and Taney counties, is expecting a direct loss of $95,000 annually, according to a news release. The National CASA/GAL organization announced April 23 that the U.S. Department of Justice issued a termination notice for three grants that are used for training, technical assistance and subawards to member programs nationwide.

Officials with CASA of Southwest Missouri called the decision "a devastating blow that will immediately impact our ability to serve 95 abused and neglected children in foster care right here in our community."

Officials added, "With already 200 children on our waiting list, we need our community’s help now more than ever."

CASA of Southwest Missouri, which provides volunteer advocates to work on behalf of foster children in the court system, has a 2025 operating budget of roughly $1.3 million, said Esther Munch, the nonprofit's development director. The nonprofit has 15 full-time and four part-time employees.

The National CASA/GAL is appealing the funding terminations, according to its announcement. GAL refers to guardian ad litem volunteers.