Category: Latest News

Inside This Issue Investing in the Earliest Years Program Spotlights Infant Mortality Awareness MIECHV Updates ECCS Updates  Investing in the Earliest Years In a tight budget year, it is vital to remember that the highest rate of return on investment is during the earliest years (ages 0-3).  This is why it is critical to ensure … Continue reading “2ND QUARTER NEWSLETTER 2020-2021”

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Volunteer Florida announced that $360,000 in funding will be distributed to five organizations that are working to implement an AmeriCorps Program in their community. Along with funding, organizations will receive technical assistance and support that will help them successfully manage a future AmeriCorps program. Programs will focus on helping community members … Continue reading “Volunteer Florida Awards $360,000 in Funding to Support Communities Impacted by COVID-19”

Inside This Issue Hurricane Preparedness During COVID-19 Program Spotlight: Donations of Masks and Diapers to Healthy Start Coalitions from the Florida Department of Health Welcome to our New Officers Statewide Implementation of Virtual Perinatal Home Visiting During COVID-19 Recognition and Awards Upcoming Trainings CDC Recommendations for Hurricane Preparedness During COVID-19 Understand that your planning may … Continue reading “1st Quarter Newsletter 2020-2021”

VERO BEACH — Rachel and Ron Toperzer, like most first-time parents, have cycled through a checklist in preparation for their daughter.  The Vero Beach couple planned a baby shower, took a handful of childbirth classes and stocked up on wipes before baby Remington arrives next month.  But, like so many others in the face of the uncertain novel coronavirus pandemic, the Toperzers … Continue reading “Pregnant amid a pandemic: Expecting mothers are adapting plans with help of local coalition”

Florida continues to struggle with key child health measures – including low birthweight babies – according to the 2019 KIDS COUNT Data Book released this week by the Annie E. Casey Foundation. The state ranked 37th in key indicators of child health and well-being in the latest data book, compared to 34th last year.  While … Continue reading “2019 Kids Count: FL Lags in LBW, Child Health”

Congratulations to Florida’s six federal Healthy Start projects for receiving funding to continue their work to eliminate perinatal health disparities! The sites were among the 100 communities nationwide that received five-year grants to implement comprehensive initiatives aimed at improving health outcomes before, during, and after pregnancy, and reducing racial and ethnic disparities in rates of … Continue reading “Sites Awarded Federal Healthy Start Funding”

The accomplishments and impact of Florida’s Healthy Start program were highlighted at the annual FAHSC Legislative Reception held recently in Tallahassee.  Program participant Helena Girouard shared her experience as a young pregnant mother struggling with addiction and credited support from the program for transforming her life and baby’s future.  Girouard, who received services through the … Continue reading “Healthy Start Showcases Accomplishments at Legislative Reception”

Whole Child Leon is grateful for all of the donations and support received in its drive to aid families in the Panhandle impacted by Hurricane Michael.  The organization has suspended its collection efforts and is focusing on distribution activities. Thank you for your overwhelming response! The Healthy Start Coalition of Bay, Franklin, Gulf is still accepting direct … Continue reading “Hurricane Relief Update”

The history and impact of Florida’s Healthy Start program was highlighted at an event this weekend honoring the late Governor and First Lady, Lawton and Rhea Chiles.  Former administration officials, staff, family members, friends and advocates gathered at the Chiles Jubilee, held to commemorate the 20th anniversary of Chiles’ death. Cheryl Wright-Mayhew opened a panel … Continue reading “Chiles Jubilee Highlights Impact of Florida Healthy Start”