‘Falling through the cracks’: Becca program for at risk teens bracing for severe budget cuts

SPOKANE, Wash. — Washington lawmakers are considering major cuts to the Becca program, which provides support services for vulnerable youth.

The Spokane County Juvenile Center says the proposed 70% reduction would decrease its annual funding from $1.3 million to under $400,000.

“To have that taken down will drastically cut the services that we give these kids,” said Tori Peterson, Director of Spokane County Juvenile Court.

Peterson says Spokane County has the highest number of Becca program filings in Washington, averaging 1,500 cases annually. The program is said to protect children who are said to be endangering themselves.

Lindsey Ruland, a Becca Case Manager, emphasized that the program serves as a lifeline rather than punishment.

“These parents, these kids, and these schools are petitioning the court for help,” Ruland explained. “I like to say, ‘You are a good kid who is going through a very hard time right now, and we’re going to get through it together.'”

The Becca Bill was named after Rebecca Hedman, a 13-year-old killed in Spokane while being exploited. Her story led to changes in Washington’s juvenile justice approach, establishing a court process for children overlooked by existing systems.

“We’re not here to punish you. You’re not on probation. We are here as a resource,” Ruland said.

Peterson explained that while court involvement provides accountability, “It’s more about services and where you’re removing barriers and getting these kids connected back.”

For case managers like Ruland, the potential impacts of these funding cuts are concerning.

“It would be an absolute detriment to the youth that we serve,” Ruland warned. “These youth are falling through the cracks. They’re not standing out. They’re not committing crimes. But so how else are they going to get the resources?”

The Spokane County Juvenile Court team continues to advocate for maintaining current funding levels to help vulnerable teens reconnect with education and access vital support services. It says the hope is to secure more funding from the county to keep this program running at its full potential.