Texas Appleseed

The Organization has worked for more than a decade to ensure children in the foster care system are protected; that they are placed in safe, permanent homes as quickly as possible; that judges are trained in best practices; and that court practices meet the needs of children and families. Two court-appointed Monitors are charged with reporting to the judge on progress or inaction of court-ordered reforms of Texas' foster care system. The monitoring team comprised experts in children's law and policy, child welfare specialists, data and policy analysts, social workers, as well as former foster youth.

The Organization advocated for just and equitable solutions to problems that negatively impact the financial well-being of Texans, such as predatory payday and auto title lending, harmful debt collection practices, economic abuse, and other financial challenges. The Organization partnered with community, statewide, and national organizations to support local needs and expand the impact through collaborative efforts.

The Organization's Criminal Justice Project worked to develop policies and practices to ensure justice does not hinge on one's race or wealth; incarceration and monitoring are last resorts; and the legal system is not used as a tool to inflict long-term negative consequences on people's lives, such as not having the ability to access housing, employment, and education. The Organization supported policies and practices that are data-driven and have been shown to be effective, are in line with best practices, and are written and implemented in a manner that promotes equity and justice for all Texans.