Texas National Guard takes on support roles at Texas Department of Juvenile Justice to avoid staff shortages amid COVID-19

TDEM has staffed staff from the Texas Department of the Army to help fill in support roles such as supply, transportation, medical assistance, food service, and bed screening.

The Texas National Guard will provide six members on campus for each 12-hour shift. They will not provide face-to-face care.

The extra support will allow TJJD’s direct care staff to focus on their primary duties of supervising and engaging with youth.

Ron Jackson and Gainesville were the first to receive help on Tuesday afternoon.

TJJD stated, “Our agency’s priority remains the safety of our youth and as a result of the increase in COVID cases statewide has impacted staff levels. This addition will allow TJJD staff to focus on the direct care of youth and help ensure the smooth running of our campus.”

SEE RELATED STORY: Massachusetts asks National Guard to help school districts amid bus driver shortage

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