Governor DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis Highlight Initiatives that Strengthen Florida Families at the 2024 Children and Families Summit
Summary
ORLANDO, Fla.—Today, Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis highlighted two transformative initiatives – Father First and Hope Florida – during a fireside chat at the Florida Department of Children and Families’ 2024 Children and Families Summit. Father First offers education for dads and grant opportunities for community-based nonprofits that promote fatherhood and mentorship. Through implementation at multiple state agencies, Hope Florida utilizes Hope Navigators to guide Floridians on an individualized path to prosperity and economic independence by focusing on community collaboration between the private sector, faith-based communities, nonprofits, and government entities. By calling 833-GET-HOPE Floridians can speak with Hope Navigators who help identify their needs, develop long-term goals, map out a path forward, and work to ensure all sectors of the community have a ‘seat at the table’ to be part of a lasting solution. More mentors are needed across the state of Florida for those youth aging out of the foster care system.