Florida Matches Veterans With Special Advocates

TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA — Florida Veterans now have personal advocates available to help navigate benefits and community services.

On Wednesday, First Lady Casey DeSantis announced an expansion of Hope Florida to the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs (FDVA). Hope Florida – A Pathway for Patriots will support veterans by connecting them to services, earned benefits ‎and community resources through Hope Navigators.

“In Florida, we are proud to support the courageous American heroes who have given so much in service to our country,” said First Lady Casey DeSantis. “When Florida veterans come home, we want to ensure that they can access services, community resources and support navigating their benefits in a streamlined and accessible way.”

Hope Navigators will work one-on-one with Veterans and their families to help guide them on an individualized path to prosperity and economic self-sufficiency. In cooperation with FDVA’s Veterans’ Claims Examiners, the program is available to all of Florida’s ‎‎1.5 million veterans.

“As a veteran and Governor of the most military and veteran-friendly state in the nation, I am proud of the work we do to support our veterans and their families,” said Governor DeSantis. “As a state and nation, we owe a great debt to those who have served and sacrificed for our freedom, and this expansion is a testament to our commitment to providing a pathway forward for Floridians who wore the uniform.”

Veterans and their families who need services can connect with Hope Florida by visiting HopeFlorida.com or calling the Hope Line (850-300-HOPE).

Hope Florida – launched by First Lady DeSantis in 2021 – has collaborated with multiple agencies including the Florida Department of Children and Families, the Florida Department of Elder Affairs, The Florida Department of Juvenile Justice, Agency for Persons with Disabilities and the Guardian ad Litem Office.