Florida – Florida’s First Lady Casey DeSantis has taken a proactive step by meeting with over 100 sheriffs, police chiefs, and other law enforcement officials across the state. The gathering focused on introducing new resources that will enable officers to refer individuals to the Hope Florida program effectively. This summer, comprehensive training will be provided to these officials to facilitate connections via the Hope Line to Hope Florida Navigators.
“Florida law enforcement work tirelessly to protect Floridians,” said First Lady Casey DeSantis. “Today, we are equipping them with resources to do even more good by referring those in need to Hope Florida.”
The initiative, strongly backed by the First Lady, aims to enhance the community engagement efforts of law enforcement officers by giving them the tools necessary to assist individuals in need of social and economic support. The meeting highlighted the alignment of law enforcement duties not only to protect but to actively participate in community strengthening.
A New Dimension of Law Enforcement
Executive Director of the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, Dave Kerner, expressed his gratitude and support for this initiative. “A common denominator among many who answered the call to become a law enforcement officer is a strong desire to help people,” said Kerner. “We at the Florida Highway Patrol are honored to work directly with First Lady Casey DeSantis, through Hope Florida, to amplify our community and faith institutions and uplift those in need.”
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During the meeting, it was revealed that law enforcement officers would distribute Hope Florida resource cards. These cards are designed to bridge the gap between those in need and available resources by connecting them to Hope Navigators.
About Hope Florida and Its Impact
Hope Florida is a unique program that employs Hope Navigators to provide a personalized pathway to prosperity for Floridians. It leverages collaboration between the private sector, faith-based communities, nonprofits, and government entities to maximize support and discover new opportunities for people experiencing hardships. The Navigators assist individuals in identifying their needs, setting long-term goals, and crafting a plan to achieve economic independence.
Since its inception, Hope Florida has aided nearly 30,000 Floridians, significantly reducing their reliance on government assistance. This reduction is projected to save the State of Florida approximately $800 million over the next decade. The program serves a wide range of residents, including families, foster youth, veterans, individuals with unique abilities, vulnerable women, and others facing various life crises.
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Supporting Floridians in Need
Department of Children and Families Secretary Shevaun Harris praised the initiative. “Law enforcement officers encounter individuals and families in some of their most challenging moments,” said Harris. “Under the leadership of First Lady Casey DeSantis, we are thrilled to be able to provide officers with additional resources that they can use to help connect individuals to the Hope Florida program. Our Hope Navigators stand ready to assist and provide support as individuals and families work to overcome barriers to success.”
For those in need of support, connecting with Hope Florida is made easy through their website or by calling the Hope Line (850-300-HOPE).
