Kids' Place, a childcare center located on the 1st floor of the court, provides a safe haven for children 0-13 while their parents tend to their business with the courts.
Families and people in crisis are in the Long Beach courts every day with their small children in tow. Babies are left unattended in the hallways while their parents are in the courtroom. Young children are sent to restrooms unsupervised. Children see their parents handcuffed and in shackles. They watch as their fathers or other caregivers are sent to jail. They hear testimony of violent or criminal behavior of family members. Often, they relive the terror they have already experienced at this young age.
Kids’ Place offers free childcare services so children do not have to experience this trauma.
Many of the families who bring their children to court are having difficulty coping with a variety of issues in their life. In addition to courthouse childcare, Kids’ Place assists them with information and referrals to community services such as childcare, medical care, shelter, or legal aid.
