We believe that all children have the right to food, clothing, housing, education, medical care, property and personal privacy. Most children have parents who take care of their needs and protect their rights. But thousands of children in Florida rely on state agencies to meet some or all of their needs. FCF exists to protect the rights of those children.
FCF works to improve the government and private systems that exist to serve children. We do this in several ways: Executive Branch Advocacy, Legal Advocacy, Legislative Advocacy, Procedural Rule Advocacy, Support for Former Foster Youth, Training and Support of Attorneys.
Why is the Organization Needed
Florida’s Children First was founded by child advocate attorneys from around the state who have been fighting their own individual battles on behalf of children at risk. But the new organization allows those efforts to be coordinated, strengthened and built into a powerful force. The advocates each have their own specialties and together are ideally positioned to effect real change.
Vision
Florida’s Children First’s vision is that Florida’s laws, policies and practices respect, prioritize and protect children and youth impacted by the child welfare, juvenile justice, and disability systems.
Mission Statement
Florida’s Children First is a non-profit, nonpartisan, independent advocacy organization committed to protecting and advancing the rights of children and youth impacted by the child welfare, juvenile justice, and disability systems through systemic reform, education, youth voice, and promoting high-quality legal representation.