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We see families through some of their most vulnerable moments, helping children who have experienced abuse or neglect know safety and stability. The children we serve have increasingly complex medical and behavioral health needs.
Helping children, young adults and families
FamiliesFirst Network provides child welfare, foster care and adoption services in Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa and Walton counties. Our specialized team is passionate about helping abused and neglected children and their families. We collaborate with partners throughout the state, in Northwest Florida’s four-county area and within our faith-based communities to ensure the safety and well-being of children.
Supporting families
Specially trained case managers support children and families with a wide range of needs – from outside of the home in foster or adoptive care, to prevention services inside the biological home, working to keep families together. In cases of suspected abuse, it is everyone’s responsibility to make a report.
When a child is removed from the biological home, reunifying that child with their family is always the initial goal. But when that goal shifts to adoption, we recruit some incredible people to wrap the children in love and provide safe homes. For those interested in becoming foster or adoptive parents, FamiliesFirst Network connects you to training and support to help you along your journey. We also offer young adult services to guide and assist those transitioning out of foster care.
Adopt a child
FamiliesFirst Network is the trusted partner for adoptions in Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa and Walton counties. When children need permanent adoptive families, FamiliesFirst Network is here to help both children and their adoptive families along their journey.
News & stories
DeFuniak Springs Service Center Backpack Drive
DeFuniak Springs, Fla. (August 13, 2025)-The FamiliesFirst Network service center in DeFuniak Springs is reaching out with a special request and we need your help! As the new school year begins, many children in our care need new backpacks. We are asking our community to come together and support this effort by donating new backpacks. […]
Growing professionally: Brandon Fernbach
For young people aging out of foster care, the future can often seem uncertain. Those who work with Child Welfare Case Manager Brandon Fernbach can feel more secure knowing they have a strong advocate in their corner. Brandon supports young adults aged 18 to 23 who have aged out of the foster care system and […]
All in Credit Union Donates School Supplies to Support Children in Care
FamiliesFirst Network extends its heartfelt gratitude to All in Credit Union for their generous donation of school supplies that will benefit the children and families we serve. This thoughtful contribution will help ensure that the children in our care are prepared for a successful school year. The donation comes at a critical time, as many […]