Contact: Philip Reichert

512.463.0484

REP. PIERSON WINS $4M FOR FAMILY SUPPORT INITIATIVE IN STATE BUDGET

AUSTIN, TX – Today, Rep. Katrina Pierson offered an amendment to the Texas State Budget bill which was accepted by the Texas House of Representatives. This amendment provides $4m to extend an existing contract with CarePortal, a vital program dedicated to supporting children and families in crisis. The funding strengthens CarePortal’s partnership with the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) and local communities to address urgent needs and keep families together.

CarePortal employs a digital platform to connect DFPS with community partners, such as local churches, enabling rapid responses to families’ immediate needs. From essentials like bedding and school supplies to critical support like rent assistance, CarePortal stabilizes households and often prevents children from entering foster care. District leaders have praised the effort. Pastor Kason Huddleston, a CarePortal partner in Rep. Pierson’s district, said, “Rep. Pierson’s advocacy in Austin has made CarePortal a lifeline, changing the lives of thousands of at-risk children and families while restoring hope in our communities.”

CarePortal echoed this sentiment, stating, “CarePortal is heartened to learn that earlier today, the Texas House of Representatives included in its budget a $4 million appropriation to support CarePortal’s work in our state. Rep. Katrina Pierson has been a tireless champion on this front. Her advocacy gained critical support from her peers for this provision, and we owe her and the House a debt of gratitude.”

Rep. Pierson extended her appreciation to the Appropriations Committee and Chairman Bonnen for their help and support prioritizing this funding. “This investment empowers communities to help our kids thrive in Rockwall and beyond, and I strongly encourage the conference committee to preserve this funding as the budget is finalized,” she stated. With this amendment, Rep. Pierson underscores her commitment to prioritizing the well-being of Texas families while making efficient use of state resources.

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