At the end of last week, First Lady Casey DeSantis welcomed female faith leaders from across Florida into the Governor’s Mansion to discuss her Hope Florida initiative and identify additional ways to partner with Florida’s churches and faith institutions to meet the needs of Floridians.
“I have been proud to witness the dedication of our Florida faith-based communities in providing for our vulnerable children, families and elderly,” said First Lady DeSantis. “Not only have you been a force of prayer, but also trailblazers in caring for your neighbors’ needs. We recognize the significance of all you have done on behalf of Floridians. Today, we wanted to bring this group of faith leaders together to communicate and collaborate on how we can continue to support each other and our neighbors.”
“It is an honor to be part of our first Women of Faith event and to be able to share with these incredible women of our state” said Erik Dellenback, Gov. Ron DeSantis’ Liaison for Faith and Community. “I am truly grateful for the tireless work and passion of First Lady Casey DeSantis to be a connector between some of our state’s most vulnerable and our faith and community organizations who stand ready to help.”
Spearheaded by First Lady DeSantis and implemented by the Florida Department of Children and Families, Hope Florida – A Pathway to Prosperity breaks down traditional community silos to unite the private sector, faith-based institutions, non-profits and government entities to maximize resources and uncover opportunities for Floridians in need. ‘Hope Navigators’ look beyond government to help individuals identify their immediate needs while developing long-term goals, to guide Floridians on an individualized path to prosperity, economic self-sufficiency and hope. Last month, the Hope Florida initiative expanded to the Department of Elder Affairs with Hope Florida – A Pathway to Purpose to support Florida’s elders and provide opportunities for seniors to volunteer.