On a frequent basis, people with urgent business before the Court -- often related to personal safety, housing, or other critical issues -- arrive at the courthouse with children in tow, because they have no better option.

-Hon. David Leith
Marion County Circuit Court Judge
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Everyone -- from court staff and judges to attorneys to the general population using the courthouse -- benefits by giving parents the option to utilize childcare at the courthouse

-Stephanie Wilson
Salem family law attorney

Mid-Valley CourtCare

Mid-Valley CourtCare provides free, quality childcare in a safe, licensed environment for children whose parents or guardians with court or other local government business in Marion and Polk Counties. CourtCare shields children from witnessing tense and disturbing court proceedings. It protects children, permits caregivers to focus on court-related business, and reduces disruptions in the courtroom. CourtCare is offered throughout the United States, including two CourtCare facilities in Multnomah County. The common theme expressed in parent and guardian testimonials is the overwhelming appreciation for keeping children safe and away from courtrooms. CourtCare increases access to justice by allowing the most financially vulnerable part of our community to participate meaningfully in court proceedings.

In Marion County, CourtCare previously operated out of the Salem Family YMCA with great success from September 2017 through July 2019. Due to a lacking of funding and a temporary closure of the YMCA, the Marion County CourtCare site had to close their doors in July 2019. Marion County CourtCare continues to fundraise with the the hope of reopening as soon as possible. You can help accomplish that goal by sending your donation to "Mid-Valley Lawyers Charitable Corp." c/o Kueny Law LLC, 3040 Commercial St. SE, Suite 135, Salem, Oregon 97302.

In Polk County, Court and Community Care is operated by Family Building Blocks at the Academy Building near the Polk County Courthouse in Dallas.  Polk County Court and Community Care is available to anyone who needs to conduct business with the court system or local social service agencies including, but not limited to: Polk County Behavioral Health, Public Health, DHS, or Housing.  Polk County Court and Community Care is open Fridays from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.  To sign up or to check availability, please call (971) 600-8454.