The Knox County Job and Family Services Back to School Voucher program generated 891 vouchers, resulting in $128,529 in redemptions at local vendors.
According to a YouTube recording of the September 18 Knox County Board of Commissioners' meeting, Job and Family Services Director Scott Boone informed the commissioners that 384 families applied for the program, leading to the creation of over 880 vouchers. Boone said that $72,006 worth of vouchers were redeemed at Marshall's, with total redemptions amounting to $128,529. He noted this figure was slightly lower than the previous year, possibly due to alleged fraud within the program that may have deterred some families from applying. Boone suggested that more aggressive advertising and social media efforts might be employed next year.
Boone also mentioned during the meeting that the agency continues to face financial challenges due to child placement costs. A $500,000 contribution from the county has temporarily improved its financial situation. However, he acknowledged that this is not a sustainable solution in the long term and discussions are ongoing on how to address this issue. Funding for adult and youth services is expected to be reduced by 69 percent and 53 percent, respectively.
Boone emphasized that Knox Job and Family Services aims to place children with relatives whenever possible, reduce their level of care when appropriate, and reunite them with their families safely through wrap-around services.
"The unknowns are what we deal with on a daily basis," Boone said. He added that they encounter children from very difficult circumstances but remain committed to serving the community and ensuring children's safety as best as they can.
As of September 17, Boone reported that 57 children remained in custody. Of these, 19 were placed with relatives or kinship caregivers. Eleven children were placed in foster homes licensed by Job and Family Services, which helps maintain community ties and reduces placement costs while facilitating quicker reunifications. Seventeen children were involved in therapeutic foster care for higher-level needs. Two children were in residential care facilities with more restrictions, while one child was placed in residential care in Florida until reaching adulthood.
