For over eleven years, children of persons who have business before the court in DeKalb County have had a refuge while their parents are in the courtroom -- which is especially important if the case directly involves them in a custody dispute, or their parents in a criminal matter.
The Children's Waiting Room occupies the former bailiff's room on the first floor of the Courthouse; the staff watches any child between six months and 10 years, while their parents -- be they litigant, witness, attorney or otherwise -- are appearing before the bench.
Euneta Weeks has worked there for about three years, and has spent over 35 years in child care; she took on the task of being the Waiting Room's supervisor, and every day strives to make the room a fun, supportive and learning environment for the children in her care. She says that's especially crucial for children who come from difficult backgrounds; the situation which may have led their parents to the courthouse is likely to have had a negative impact on them, and Euneta hopes to lessen the problem by giving them a secure place to be watched...and to enjoy the company of other children, as well as the staff.
Every child who stays in the Waiting Room receives a free gift bag, including a new or gently used book to keep; Euneta and the other staff and board members usually work to keep the shelves stocked, and get the budget needed to provide what in some cases may be the only books in a child's home.
To assist with that effort, the Sycamore Middle School Interact Club provided $100.00 from its proceeds from sports concessions to the Children's Waiting Room, towards the purchase of new books. Gable Carrick from the Interact Club was on hand at the November 15th meeting, to present the check on their behalf.