First Lady of the state of Florida Casey DeSantis officially announced the amplification of her Hope Florida – A Pathway to Purpose, which is intended to target the elderly community with support and increased assistance for those in need.
In 2021, the Mrs. DeSantis launched Hope Florida – A Pathway to Prosperity initiative with the intent to “break down traditional community silos to unite the private sector, faith-based institutions, non-profits, and government entities to maximize resources and uncover opportunities for Floridians in need” and has since served over 50,000 Floridians.
However, with the new program, seniors will have the opportunity to receive more immediate assistance. The way the initiative is designed allows retirees looking to serve their fellow community members in what’s called the “Hope Heroes Program,” to help out the elders who need it most.
“Hope Florida – A Pathway to Purpose is an all-hands-on-deck operation to meet the needs of seniors while creating opportunities for them to give back,” said First Lady DeSantis. “We are not only aiding Floridians in search of help, but also tapping into the Florida retiree population to volunteer. It’s incredible to see 45 seniors already lined up as Hope Heroes today; we are grateful for their willingness to serve and are committed to making it easier for them to do so. We are also expanding the role of the private sector and faith-based organizations by alerting those who wish to help but may not know of seniors’ needs in their area. I’m happy to say that with today’s expansion, we are continuing the Hope Florida theme of organizing the generosity and goodness of neighbors to help one another.”
With this approach, seniors will be helping seniors. This program will be giving those who are looking to get back in the workforce or those looking to help the community in different capacities the opportunity to engage with the elderly population in a positive manner.
“We are so appreciative of the First Lady’s commitment and dedication to ensuring the needs of our State’s most vulnerable populations are met,” said Department of Children and Families Secretary Shevaun Harris. “Through Hope Florida – A Pathway to Prosperity, we are helping to connect those in need with individuals and organizations who want to help and are so excited to see the program expand to serve Florida’s seniors.”