East Volusia News

Florida law enforcement will soon be able to offer enhanced support to residents through the Hope Florida initiative. First Lady Casey DeSantis convened a meeting in Tallahassee with over 100 sheriffs, police chiefs, and other law enforcement officials from across the state to introduce new resources for officers. These resources are designed to help direct individuals in need to Hope Florida.

This summer, law enforcement agencies will receive training on connecting those in need with a Hope Florida Navigator via 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.”

Executive Director of the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Dave Kerner emphasized the collaborative nature of this effort. “A common denominator among many who answered the call to become a law enforcement officer is a strong desire to help people,” he said. “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."

Hope Florida employs Hope Navigators who guide Floridians on personalized paths toward prosperity and economic independence by leveraging community collaboration between private sector entities, faith-based communities, nonprofits, and government organizations. This program aims to maximize support and uncover opportunities for individuals facing difficult times.

Since its launch, nearly 30,000 Floridians have reduced or eliminated their reliance on government assistance, potentially saving the state nearly $800 million over ten years. The program serves families, foster youth, veterans, individuals with unique abilities, vulnerable women, those facing crises, and others in need.

“Law enforcement officers encounter individuals and families in some of their most challenging moments,” said Department of Children and Families Secretary Shevaun Harris. “Under the leadership of First Lady Casey DeSantis, we are thrilled to provide officers with additional resources that they can use to help connect individuals to the Hope Florida program."

Floridians seeking support can visit www.HopeFlorida.com or call the Hope Line at (850-300-HOPE).

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