Get kids out of foster care quicker, state orders. But it may split up families.
The Department of Children and Families wants children out of foster care in 12 months or less. Some families may take longer to fix. TAMPA
We believe that all children have the right to food, clothing, housing, education, medical care, property and personal privacy.
Florida’s laws, policies and practices respect, prioritize and protect children and youth impacted by the child welfare, juvenile justice, and disability systems.
The Department of Children and Families wants children out of foster care in 12 months or less. Some families may take longer to fix. TAMPA
TALLAHASSEE Miami-Dade and Monroe counties could lose about $11.5 million in funding for their child welfare system in the next few years, under changes that
Hillsborough Commission Chairman Les Miller also opposes the controversial plan. He wants the county to house children at the Lake Magdalene group home. Two beds
A report by a Hillsborough juvenile justice advisory board calls for a new law so judges can order treatment for foster teens who refuse placements.
It is with great sadness that Florida’s Children First announces the death of Andrea Moore, former Executive Director from 2005 through 2009. Andrea was an
The Chronicle of Social Change is highlighting each of the policy recommendations made this summer by the participants of the Foster Youth Internship Program (FYI), a
In February of 2018, the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) was hit with a federal class-action lawsuit alleging that private providers in the southern part
Province could look to Florida or Connecticut for ideas on how to help former kids in care. By Katie Hyslop Today | TheTyee.ca Katie Hyslop is a reporter for
A Winter Haven man who was adopted from foster care as a child is doing something remarkable. He’s working on a postgraduate degree entirely
By: Liliana Hernandez and Angelique Day More first-generation, low-income students and students of color, including youth in foster care, are enrolling in college than ever
There is much work to be done before the promise of full legal rights for dependent children is realized. By Amy Harfeld Recent disturbing headlines
For the first time, states can now claim federal matching funds through Title IV-E of the Social Security Act to help pay the costs of
By Christopher O’Donnell and Nathaniel Lash Published Dec. 27, 2018 Justice McGuill was barely 12 when she walked into the house in Hudson, her little hands gripping tightly
As a former youth in foster care, I have experienced firsthand the care of children in our state and how our childcare systems prepare youth
Florida has made great strides when it comes to improving the system of care for children in our state, but a new report shows there
FYS Communications & Marketing Chair
(Miami)
Hi everyone!
My name is Mel and I’m 23. In the community support space, I’m known for strong communication, crisis navigation, and the ability to build trust with participants from diverse backgrounds. I consistently hold close partnerships with care coordinators, advocates, and local organizations to provide comprehensive and high-quality support.
I specialize in creating structured tools such as educational guides, clear documentation, and life-skills resources that help youth better understand their needs, boundaries, and options.
Alongside my advocacy work, I have become an accomplished creative whose work spans digital design, visual content development, and storytelling. I design flyers, presentations, and multimedia pieces that bring clarity, culture, and visual impact to youth programming, community initiatives, and local events. My creative eye allows me to transform information into accessible and engaging visuals that resonate authentically with the communities I serve.
I am proud to be a member of the 2025-26 Statewide Board as and lend my skills to Florida Youth SHINE in support of my peers and bringing changed for youth with homeless and foster care experience.