The Houston Chronicle June 8, 2010, Tuesday  VIEWPOINTS Protect most vulnerable In “Cuts taking a toll on child services” (Page B9, May 31), Seema Jilani highlights some effects governmental budget cuts are already having on our nation's most vulnerable citizens — children. Texas is currently facing a $15 billion to $18 billion budget shortfall in 2012-13, and state leaders have already ordered one round of budget cuts this year. On Friday, the Legislative Budget Board and Gov. Rick Perry ordered agencies to prepare for a second round of cuts. Although the foster care program is among few exemptions in the baseline request, other areas of the Department of Family and Protective Service's budget — under which Child Protective Services falls — are at risk. History shows that in times of economic downturn, children are abused more, removed from their homes more frequently and cracks in the child welfare system widen. With a potential reduction in CPS employees and services available to the state's abused and neglected children, a court-appointed advocate volunteer on a child's case is critical. Advocates interview parents, ensure medical care, look out for educational interests and make recommendations in court regarding the child's permanent placement. They dry tears and give hugs and throw birthday parties, too. Most importantly, they serve as a constant for that child to count on during a very tumultuous time. — SONYA GALVAN, Child Advocates Inc.   Copyright 2010, HOUSTON CHRONICLE