What is a Children’s Services Fund?

The Children’s Services Fund (RSM0 Section 67.1775) was established nearly 30 years ago by Missouri Law. The law allows counties through a voter approved tax to establish a fund solely for the purpose of establishing a community children’s services fund for the purpose of providing services to protect the well-being and safety of children and youth nineteen years of age or less and to strengthen families.

Children today are facing unprecedented levels of anxiety partly due to increased use of technology and social media. Events like the pandemic have further intensified mental health challenges for them. Furthermore, one in five children in Buchanan County lives in poverty. Children living in poverty often experience poor health, hunger, and instability.

All of these things contribute to higher rates of depression, stress and other mental health concerns, leading to problems such as substance abuse, suicide, violence, lower school attendance and graduation rates. Children are affected across all family types and backgrounds.

The Buchanan County Children’s Services Fund will expand access to vital prevention and intervention services. Investing in the well-being of our children will lead to thriving young adults who grow into productive community members.

JASPER COUNTY PROPOSAL

The 1/4 Cent sales tax will generate $4MILLION annually for children in Buchanan County.

How does it work?

  • Buchanan County Commissioners appoint a nine member board to disburse and oversee the funds.

  • Nonprofit organizations and governmental entities may apply for funds outlined in the law.

  • Board members cannot serve on the governing body, be employed by, or have a financial interest in a recipient of funds.

  • Board may audit expenditures at any time.

What services could be included?

  • Temporary shelter for abused, neglected, runaway, or homeless children

  • Outpatient treatment

  • Outpatient counseling

  • Prevention programs to strengthen families

  • Intervention programs

  • Counseling, therapy, evaluations, and screenings

  • Crisis intervention

  • Respite Care

Why support Children’s Services Funds?

  • Savings to Taxpayers

  • Improved Workforce

  • Improved Economy

  • Improved Business Recruitment

Missouri Counties That Have Established Children’s Services Funds

Boone • Clay • Franklin • Jackson • Jefferson • Lafayette • Lincoln
St. Charles • St. Louis City • St. Louis County

THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A CHILDREN’S SERVICES FUND CAN MAKE THIS A REALITY

Prevention Saves Buchanan County Taxpayers $$$.

  • Every $1 invested in prevention equals $24 in health and economic savings according to NIH.

  • Reduce substance abuse treatment, lost wages, and criminal justice system cost.

  • Prevention helps to lower health care costs and increase graduation rates.

  • About 50% of Buchanan County sales tax revenue is generated by those who live outside the county.

A Children’s Services Fund is an effective method to increase resources and services to protect the well-being and safety of children and youth and to strengthen families.