BROWARD COUNTY, FL - Children in need of adult supervision while their parents or guardians attend domestic violence court proceedings now have a safe and nurturing place to go at the Broward County Courthouse.
A ribbon cutting ceremony today officially opens the first KidSpace program available in the County. Broward County Commissioners approved funding to begin the program and pay for its ongoing child care services. A number of community agencies such as the Sunrise Police Department, Clerk of the Court and Court Administration worked together to bring the much needed service to Broward.
“The KidSpace Program, staffed by trained and certified personnel from the YWCA, will provide a secure, supportive, and nurturing environment for children to learn and play while their parents or guardians attend domestic violence-related court proceedings or filings,” said Commissioner Nan Rich, who pushed the program forward.
The YWCA of Greater Miami was chosen to manage the program through a competitive bid process. The YWCA of Greater Miami currently operates KidSpace programs at four courthouses in Miami-Dade County.
“I’ve seen what happens to children involved in domestic violence cases. Many times they have to sit outside in the hallway as their parents go through court proceedings,” said 17th Judicial Circuit Court Chief Judge Jack Tuter.
The KidSpace program is for children ranging in age from six months to 13 years old. Children must be referred to the program through the Domestic Violence Clerk. The child care services are for parents or guardians who have no other way to care for their children while they’re involved in the court proceedings.
“Commissioner Nan Rich stepped on board and did what she said she would do. We believe in the merits of this program,” said Broward County Clerk of the Court Brenda Forman.
The YWCA of Greater Miami will provide activities that will be age appropriate for the social, emotional and physical development of the child in their care.
DATE: March 26, 2018
MEDIA CONTACT: Kimberly Maroe
EMAIL: kmaroe@broward.org
PHONE: (954) 357-8053