A new program is set to begin on Monday in Charles County that will benefit foster and homeless children. Called the Generous Juror Program, it will allow Charles County jurors to donate their $15 daily stipend to provide goods and services for the children, including child safety seats, cribs, tutoring, school supplies, field trip fees, birthday gifts, and certain medical equipment. These are items that are not provided normally by government funding.
The program was unveiled at a press conference Monday at the Charles County Circuit Court., It was the brainchild of Delegate Peter Murphy (D: 26) who was a former foster parent. He had heard that other counties in the state had the program and he approached Clerk of the Circuit Court Sharon “Sherri” L. Hancock, who embraced the idea. She in turn checked with County Administrative Judge Amy J. Bragunier, who quickly approved it.
At the press conference, County Commissioner Ken Robinson (D: District 1), “Anyone who says government cannot do things quickly, this goes against that.”
Commissioner President Candice Quinn Kelly (D) noted that the county already is receiving inquiries from other jurisdictions about the program. She said it was like “sowing a little seed.” She praised the partners in the collaborative effort.
Murphy noted that items such as child safety seats are mandated by law but the foster care program does not provide foster parents with monies for them. Charles County Director of Social Services Therese Wolf said that often her employees take money out of their pockets for needs of foster families. She said an example was lunch for families that have to appear in court.
Tanida Sanders, who administers the school system’s homeless program, said that there are 500 homeless children being served by the school system. The new program will also benefit them.
Monies collected by the court clerk’s office will be distributed by the Department of Social Services. Hancock said the program will be explained to new jurors during their orientation session.
