First Lady Casey DeSantis hosted a meeting with over 100 sheriffs, police chiefs, and other law enforcement officials to introduce new resources aimed at helping officers direct individuals to Hope Florida. This summer, law enforcement agencies will receive training on connecting those in need with a Hope Florida Navigator through the Hope Line.
“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.”
Dave Kerner, Executive Director of the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, stated: “A common denominator among many who answered the call to become a law enforcement officer is a strong desire to help people. 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. Through the distribution of the Hope Florida resource cards, law enforcement officers across the state will have the ability to bridge this gap by connecting those in need of hope to resources through the help of Hope Navigators.”
Hope Florida employs Hope Navigators who guide Floridians on paths toward prosperity and economic independence by fostering collaboration between private sectors, faith-based communities, nonprofits, and government entities. The program aims to maximize support for individuals facing difficult times by integrating various community sectors into a cohesive support network.
Since its launch, nearly 30,000 Floridians have reduced or eliminated their reliance on government assistance, saving an estimated $800 million over ten years. The program serves families, foster youth, veterans, individuals with unique abilities, vulnerable women, and others in need.
Department of Children and Families Secretary Shevaun Harris remarked: “Law enforcement officers encounter individuals and families in some of their most challenging moments. 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.”
Floridians seeking support can connect with Hope Florida by visiting www.HopeFlorida.com or calling the Hope Line at (850) 300-HOPE.