PRESS RELEASE: Thursday, May 29, 2025
For interviews and b-roll, contact:
Hana Cowart, Communications Manager
media@gcjfcs.org, 727-503-7856
Gulf Coast JFCS is offering innovative solutions for the foster system through the Children First Innovation Fund – a groundbreaking new initiative minimizing obstacles to permanency for children in foster care.
Every child deserves the warmth and stability of a safe and loving family but with the support of the foster care dependency system often comes recurring and hindering obstacles which unintentionally hinder the process of bringing children and parents together.
A significant barrier in the foster system is the high turnover rate and burnout among child welfare staff attributed to large caseload numbers and high levels of stress associated with the job. This can prolong the adoption finalization and wait times, which in turn creates more stress for the child and family. These persistent and long waiting periods are deeply affecting the mental health of hundreds of children in the Tampa Bay region who end up waiting years for their chance with a future forever family. This causes detrimental and lasting effects on the child’s mental and physical health.
With innovative solutions that streamline the adoption process, the Children First Innovation Fund will ensure behind-the-scenes obstacles are reduced, and prevent the already long and often stressful process of the adoption system that is experienced by both the children and staff. These solutions include adoptive placement stabilization support, crisis-intervention, and on-site clinical support for child welfare staff. This initiative is a testament to the power of compassion in action and is proof that when a community unites, miracles happen.
In the first year of funding, the Gulf Coast JFCS Children First Innovation Fund supported the adoption journey for 6 children in foster care as well as providing 354 interactive support sessions with child welfare staff and 23 crisis de-escalation sessions for youth impacted by delays in the foster care process creating a more solution-focused and streamlined support system.
“Adoption is more than a legal process; it is a lifelong commitment to love and nurture” said Melanie Brady, Vice President of Children and Family Services at Gulf Coast JFCS. “Through the support of our community, whether by donating, spreading awareness, or advocating for change, all plays a vital role in making sure these children can be together with the families they deserve. By working together, we can ensure that every barrier is overcome efficiently, and families can focus on what matters: strengthening bonds, creating lasting memories, and building brighter futures grounded in love, support, and resilience.”
We offer several local experts who can answer related questions including:
- Kelly Jordan, Vice President of Philanthropy
- Melanie Brady, Vice President for Children and Family Services at Gulf Coast JFCS
ABOUT GULF COAST JFCS:
Protecting the vulnerable, strengthening families, and empowering individuals throughout the state of Florida since 1974, Gulf Coast JFCS helps the most vulnerable people throughout our community, from babies to seniors, to find safety, comfort, and a path toward a fulfilling life. To help as many people as compassionately and comprehensively as possible through complex life challenges, Gulf Coast JFCS programs span a broad human service spectrum reaching more than 30,000 people annually throughout Tampa Bay and beyond. Our programs include career development, behavioral health services, family support, and more. The outcome – lives uplifted! Additional information is available at www.GulfCoastJFCS.org
Attachment: Media Release
