EXCERPT FROM: WESH Orlando
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. -- It's a sanctuary for children and a blessing for their parents, but a lack of money could mean a unique day care program could be shut down.
A Place for Children operates inside the Orange County courthouse. Since 1998, it's been a saving grace for parents involved in criminal or civil cases, marital and custody disputes who need a place to watch their children for free. People serving on juries can also use it.
"Having this here is an excellent program," parent Theresa Jackson said.
Judge Cynthia Mackinnon helped start the program. It depends on a variety of sponsors, including the Children's Home Society, which makes sure that every kid who leaves gets a free book.
However, a drop in donations and courthouse budget cuts has the day care set to close on Nov. 17 unless Mackinnon and sponsors can raise $70,000.