IMPACT

The Problem: Florida’s Foster Care System is Overwhelmed

“There is no greater need than strengthening our communities and creating strong, stable and supportive networks for our children and their families. That is exactly what Better Together does – and through this incredible partnership, we are able to empower and preserve families when we can safely do so; through the selflessness of volunteers who open their hearts and homes to keep our families safe and together during times of crisis.”

Lisa Mayrose, Former Regional Managing Director, Department of Children and Families

The Solution: Better Together

A proactive approach to PREVENTING neglect and keeping families TOGETHER: hearts and homes to keep our families safe and together during times of crisis.”

Our Impact

Thanks to more than 150 church partners and 1,000+ approved volunteers, we’re making an impact that we hope will last generations for the families we serve.

3,000

Families Served Since Startup

Our goal and vision are to expand our proven program across the state of Florida. Together, we strive to reduce the number of children entering foster care due to neglect and keep families together.

Family Testimonials

DCF Testimonials

“Better Together has diverted many children from entering the state foster care system. They are always available and ready to bring hope and warmth to families in a situation that can feel helpless. They continue to provide emotional support and guidance while families remedy their situation. I am grateful for our continued partnership and shared goal to keep families together.”

“Better Together is a vital resource for the Department of Children and Families (DCF). We are able to have a host family provided to the children while parents make necessary changes to their home or lives so that the children are not put into foster care. Some families need some time to get things in order, and with Better Together children do not have to endure going into the foster care system. Instead they get to have a sleepover with some new friends until their home or parents are able to properly provide.”

“As Child Protective Investigators, we are perceived as only taking actions to remove children from their caregivers and support systems. That perception is heartbreaking for the investigators that go out every day to meet with families to figure out a plan to keep their children safe, identify available services, and determine adequate supports systems in order to avoid any intrusive actions. Services such as Better Together allow investigators to utilize the least intrusive measures while building a strong support foundation for the families’, hosts’, and the child(ren)’s future. We know it takes a village to raise children and that village is Better Together.”

“The Better Families program is a fantastic option for families in crisis. Our work with Better Together gives us ways to support families on the road to hopefully making them self-sufficient. I find the staff responsive, caring and committed.”