The Florida Coalition for Children (FCC) has grown from a long respected history of advocating for children, families, and the agencies that care for them. It was established in 1952 as the Florida Association of Child and Family Agencies (FACFA) and is one of the states oldest group child care associations. In March 2002, FACFA was restructured to form an unprecedented partnership between child welfare service providers and the emerging Community Based Care Lead Agencies. It was at that time that the association adopted its current name.

 

Along with the name changes and growing number of member agencies, the Coalition's mission has evolved as well. The goal has always been to advocate for the protection of children and build strong families but the words have changed somewhat to accommodate all that our child welfare system encompasses. Our mission: The Florida Coalition for Children advocates for Florida's abused and neglected children and supports the agencies and individuals who work on their behalf.

 

 Our member agencies care for nearly 50,00 children and families in crisis, providing critical services and programs to this vulnerable population throughout the state. For example, residential and group care homes; emergency shelters; residential treatment centers, therapeutic wilderness camps; counseling; foster family care; adoption; maternity care; early intervention and in-home services; independent living and many more. In addition to contracting for services with various state agencies (Department of Children and Families, Department of Juvenile Justice and Department of Education), our members raise approximately $80 million per year from private sources which are used to provide programs and facilities for the children in their care.

 

We aspire to acheive safety, stability and security for the children and families in need. As such, our vision is a system of Child Welfare in Florida that is fully resourced, well managed and fullfills the needs of our abused and neglected children.

 

FCC strives for a climate of decision making responsive to the needs of Florida's children, young adults and families; and to promote quality systems of care through value-based and fiscally accountable programs. Our FCC staff facilitate member collaboration and resource sharing and, along with members, educate state and local policy makers regarding issues affecting children and families in crisis and the agencies involved in caring for them. Maintaining a strong presence in Tallahassee, the location of our corporate headquarters, FCC works with lobbyists, our Legislative Committee, members of the Legislature and other child welfare agencies and advocates to monitor and affect legislation relevant to our members and the children and family whom they serve.

 

If you have questions about our association or if you are interested in joining the Florida Coalition for Children, please complete the Membership Application or contact our office.