Kick Off 2025 with Gratitude and Exciting Community Updates!
Happy New Year!
As we step into 2025, we at Heartland for Children are filled with gratitude and excitement for the year ahead. We hope this year brings joy, growth, and opportunities for us all to continue making a difference in the lives of children and families across Polk, Highlands, and Hardee Counties.
In this edition, we’re thrilled to share updates and celebrate the incredible work being done in our community. Inside, you’ll find:
Helpful Resources – Tools and information to support children and families.
We are so grateful for your continued partnership and support. Together, we’re building stronger families, safer communities, and brighter futures for children. Thank you for being part of this vital work.
Introducing the AWE Program
We are excited to announce the upcoming launch of the Alliance for Workforce Enhancement for invitation only Heartland for Children staff and contracted case management!
AWE provides:
Organizational Health Assessment + Co-Creation of Change Plan
Well-being resources
Leadership Development
Tailored Technical Assistance
Heartland for Children would like to thank the individuals and agencies who submitted proposals. Heartland for Children is pleased to announce a Notice of Intent to Award to the following agencies:
In November, we had an unforgettable day for 13 families and 22 amazing kids as we partnered with LEGOLAND Florida and Florida's 10 Judicial Circuit to finalize these adoptions in a way that was as fun and special as the families themselves! After the emotional and joyous adoption ceremony, the families got to celebrate by spending the day together at LEGOLAND Florida, creating memories that will last a lifetime. View more photos here.
Together we brightened the holidays for over 1,653 children in foster care across Polk, Highlands & Hardee Counties.
436+ generous donors
1,653 children's wish lists sponsored
1,000's of toys and gifts purchased
66 toy drive locations
752 gifts through our Amazon Toy Registry
2,000+ hours of manpower to organize, sort and distribute thousands of gifts from Heartland for Children team, case management staff, and community volunteers
Beyond the numbers, the impact of the Rudolph Round-Up is best captured through the heartfelt stories shared by foster families and caregivers.
"We are fostering to adopt our special needs nephew. He’s the sweetest boy on the planet! Christmas Eve was magical, and Christmas morning was pure joy as our son opened his gifts. Thank you to all who give selflessly. Without you, none of this would be possible!"
- Stephanie, Relative Caregiver
"The gifts were amazing! Thank you for helping put a smile on their faces...we
appreciate you all!" - Foster Caregiver
"[Our 9-year old boy] was gifted so many toys, books, and learning activities he couldn't express his happiness but to literally open every one and show us how it worked. Our gratitude goes out to all the families, sponsors and helpers who put this together. We are able to give but the extra help really alleviates any stress we may be going through during the season." - Maria, Foster Caregiver
Did you know Florida ranks #3 in states with the most human trafficking cases? In 2024, there were 738 confirmed cases of human trafficking in our state. Together, we can make a difference!
