ROCK HILL — Some lawmakers say they plan to fight for the financially-strapped guardian ad litem program.

The program, which provides volunteer representation for children in cases of abuse and neglect in Family Court, was set to run out of money in January, but Gov. Mark Sanford’s office found federal grant money last month to keep it operational until June.

The General Assembly has to find money to fund the program after June. Lawmakers face another difficult year where budget cuts are expected.

“I know I will make a strong effort to put funding back in,” said Sen. Wes Hayes, R-York. But, he said, finding the money “is easier said than done.”

Hayes is a lawyer, and two lawyers from his firm have served as guardians in Family Court. “I know how this program works and know how important it is,” Hayes said. “I remain committed to it.”

The program is not connected to paid guardians in contested custody cases in Family Court. Although the guardians themselves are volunteers, the program must pay for training, court costs, operating expenses and administrative staff in 15 judicial circuits around the state.

While the program is run by the governor’s office, Sanford told Legislative leaders in a letter earlier this year that its future is in the hands of the General Assembly.

“The budget will be tight, but I don’t see anything indicative right now that funding won’t happen,” said Rep. Gary Simrill, R-York.

In 2002, the program served 8,657 children statewide. Volunteers still are needed for the program. When enough volunteers aren’t available, the court appoints lawyers to serve as guardians.