Did you know that currently there are approximately 5,000 children in Sacramento who have been removed from their homes because of severe abuse or neglect? Each month approximately 160 more children are removed from their homes. This can also include removal from their extended family, their siblings, their neighborhoods, their friends and their school. These endangered children must rely upon the legal system to adopt a plan for their care, custody and future.   If possible, will their parents be receptive to receiving the appropriate services to allow them to be reunified with their parents? Will they be separated from their siblings, their brothers and sisters, while they are in the system? Will they be able to attend their same school or will they have to change schools? Will they lose contact with all their friends? Will they receive the appropriate counseling and medical care necessary to deal with the emotional trauma they have suffered? Who will advocate for their educational needs and school stability? Who will advocate for permanency - as soon as possible?

Who will advocate for a plan for their life after they exit the foster care system?

In 1991, Judge Roger Warren felt that these children needed a voice - an advocate - on their behalf and started Sacramento Child Advocates, Inc. (SCA).  Over the ensuing 15 years, SCA has grown to a staff of 18 dedicated, caring lawyers and 7 professional youth advocate social workers. Together they help the Court develop a plan in the best interest of the child.  Like many not for profits, SCA is under-funded.  This lack of funding unfortunately immediately affects our child clients and, inevitably, our future.

In California:

	One-third will become homeless within the first year of being released from the foster care system;
	50% will become unemployed;
	25% will become incarcerated within the first few years of leaving the foster care system;
	Fewer than 10% enroll in college and only 1% actually graduates.

SCA needs your support. Donate your resources ...volunteer your time...show your concern for the lives of our children today.

It is only the collaborative effort of SCA with the support of our community, businesses, organizations and sponsors that will improve the outcomes in Sacramento County.

Robert M. Wilson, Executive Director Sacramento Child Advocates, Inc.