TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA — Today, First Lady Casey DeSantis announced the CareerSource Florida Board of Directors’ support for Hope Florida through expanded services.
New coordination between CareerSource Florida and the Department of Children and Families will now help Floridians with barriers obtain and keep good jobs.
“Sometimes the key to entering a promising new career path and maintaining that employment is the support you have, like childcare or transportation,” Casey DeSantis said. “We’re bringing agencies that provide support together to help Floridians in need make strides in the workforce through the Hope Florida initiative.”
At yesterday's board meeting, the CareerSource Florida Board of Directors approved more than $20 million in Governor’s Reserve funding and Wagner-Peyser funds for the new fiscal year through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act.
“Dedicated Hope Navigators focused specifically on connecting Floridians with careers and skills training will work with the CareerSource Florida network to help them embark on their pathway to prosperity,” said Florida’s first lady.
The new funding covers Hope Navigators at each of the state’s local workforce development boards. Navigators will work directly with Hope Florida participants to find jobs, enroll in training and launch new career pathways that lead to self-sufficiency and economic prosperity.
“With Hope Florida, we will further eliminate red tape between state agencies to ensure we are working collaboratively and comprehensively to help Floridians with challenges succeed in the workplace,” CareerSource Florida Board Chair Stephanie Smith said.
Governor’s Reserve Funds approved by the CareerSource Florida Board will support the following programs in the new fiscal year:
- $2.5 million for soft skills training to prepare Hope Florida clients for additional technical skills training for in-demand jobs.
- $4.3 million for Navigators to provide individualized support.
- $2.75 million for a new pilot program to support Floridians in need who pursue careers in nursing and other health fields.
- $3 million for Incumbent Worker Training to help existing small businesses upskill employees.
- $2 million for rural workforce initiatives to support talent development in rural communities.
Families in need of services can connect with the program by visiting the Hope Florida website or calling the Hope Line at 850-300-HOPE.
