Washington, DC - Congressman Maurice Hinchey (D-NY) this week secured the House Appropriations Committee's approval of $250,000 for KidsPeace in Tompkins County.  Hinchey, who is a member of that panel, requested the funds for the therapeutic foster care program as part of the Fiscal Year 2010 Commerce, Justice, Science Appropriations bill.

"The KidsPeace program will meet the critical needs of children in the Ithaca area who are without foster care services." Hinchey said "It is of the utmost importance to fund supportive measures for children who are most in need of help so they are able to gain the skills necessary to become hardworking and responsible citizens. These federal funds will help employ 12 support staff and is anticipated to benefit up to 120 members of the community. This is truly a great undertaking and I fully support their efforts."

KidsPeace is beginning its new foster care program with the intended goal of meeting the needs of the undeserved foster community in the Ithaca area. This program will provide children in need with the support system necessary to thrive and overcome their unstable home environments. The program provides a number of services including training for foster families, professional support for children with behavioral and emotional needs, and provides a safe haven for those with broken homes.

The measure now moves to the full House for a vote. Having the funds included in the original version of the bill is considered a critical step in the process.