Casey DeSantis awards $50,000 to non-profit organizations through Hope Florida fund
AUBURNDALE, Fla. (FLV) – First Lady Casey DeSantis surprised five Polk County non-profit organizations with $10,000 each through the Hope Florida Fund.
“Florida’s non-profits work selflessly to uplift and alleviate the needs of their communities,” DeSantis said. “Today, I was honored to award funding to these deserving organizations. I cannot emphasize enough how grateful we are for caring nonprofit leaders and volunteers who step in to support children and families through life’s challenges. We hope that today’s funds help these good people continue their impactful work.”
The five groups recognized by the first lady were Everyday Christians Helping Orphans Ministries, Top Buttons, Inc., Bikes for Christ, Dream Center of Lakeland and Take a Kid Fishing, Inc.
According to the press release, the first lady and the non-profit representatives discussed Hope Florida – A Pathway to Prosperity initiative and how to further collaborate and better meet the needs of Floridians.
Hope Florida – A Pathway to Prosperity was created by the first lady and implemented by the Florida Department of Children and Families and the Florida Department of Elder Affairs. It was launched in 2021 and has served nearly 50,000 individuals.
The initiative is meant to “unite the private sector, faith-based institutions, non-profits, and government entities” to “uncover opportunities” for those in need.
Hope Florida “unites” communities through ‘Care Navigators’ to “guide Floridians on an individualized path to prosperity, economic self-sufficiency and hope.”
‘Care Navigators’ are “essential in helping individuals identify their unique and immediate barriers to prosperity, develop long-term goals, map out a strategic plan and work to ensure all sectors of the community have a ‘seat at the table’ to be a key part of the solution.”
DeSantis presented the awards to organizations in the Polk County area that are serving children and families in need through mentorship, material support and educational programs.
