EXCERPT FROM: News Tribune
By Angie Hutschreider
Children's advocates from across the state gathered Wednesday at the Capitol, holding red signs that sent their message clearly: Make Missouri's children and families first
Those gathered were hoping elected officials would hear their pleas for restoration of family and child services that have been reduced or cut from the budget.
"We are in a budget crisis, and everyone knows that," said Emily Schwartze, communications coordinator with Missouri Alliance for Children, Youth and Families. "We really want to convey to legislators that balancing the budget in a responsible way is necessary for children and families across this state."