August 14 , 2009

Since March 2008, the Clark County Courts have participated as a model court in a new federal program that works to help mothers become drug free in a unique residential treatment program. The Dependency Mothers’ Drug Court was established to assist women who have child custody issues due to their addiction to methamphetamine or other substances.

On August 14, 2009, the first graduate of this program, Marcellina Morcos, was honored by Drug Court Judge Jennifer Elliott for her successful completion of the program.

The Dependency Mothers’ Drug Court is supported by a$3.7 million, five-year federal grant to assist and rehabilitate mothers addicted to methamphetamine. The participants also are at risk of permanently losing their children. The program is a partnership with the Healthy Families Program at WestCare, a residential treatment center for women and children.

The residential treatment program is unique in that mothers and their children live together while receiving treatment. The Dependency Mothers’ Drug Court provides a positive alternative to incarceration that rehabilitates and strengthens families, breaks the cycle of drug use and enhances family reunification efforts.

In addition to Ms. Morcos, the Drug Court has seven additional mothers preparing for graduation. This event will recognize the achievements of these mothers and introduce this important program to the community.