CASA for Kids of East Texas (Serving Smith, Wood, and Van Zandt Counties)

Serving Smith, Wood, and Van Zandt Counties, the mission of CASA for Kids of East Texas is to make life-changing differences by advocating for the best interests of children who have experienced abused or neglect. Our staff and trained community volunteers achieve this by identifying children's needs, recommending services, connecting with support systems and advocating for safety and permanency.

CASA for Kids of East Texas is a non-profit organization that mobilizes community volunteers to help break the cycle of child abuse. These volunteers advocate for children that are involved in the family court system. Child Protective Services (CPS) has removed these children from their homes for their safety and well-being, and they now reside in foster care. CASA® volunteers have an opportunity to affect real change in the lives of these children by advocating for their best interests in court.

In 2024, CASA for Kids of East Texas served about 500 children. CASA supports these precious children through advocacy, ensuring their temporary and permanent placements are safe. Advocates determine how children are progressing, how they are doing in school. Advocates ensure children receive appropriate care in health, dental, emotion and educational areas. Advocates strive for family reunification when safe. CASA advocates ensure children have their basic needs met including clothing that fits, food, shelter, normalcy activities, and family connections. CASA fills in the gap when other resources are unable to do so.