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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
Growing professionally: Melody Kohr
At FamiliesFirst Network, our Young Adult Services Program serves as a vital resource for youth aging out of foster care. Leading the program is Melody Kohr, a dedicated child welfare professional with more than 20 years of service. Melody has spent her career supporting young people on their path to independence. Melody’s journey into child […]
Growing professionally: Pam Smith
Pam Smith walked into Lakeview Center 55 years ago not knowing she would help shape the organization into what it is today. What started as a role answering the crisis line turned into a decades-long journey of leadership, service and professional growth. This July, Pam transitions into retirement, closing one of the most impactful chapters […]
Brandy Dyer named FamiliesFirst Network Team Member of the Quarter
Brandy Dyer, records specialist in vital statistics, has been named FamiliesFirst Network Team Member of the Quarter! In just one year, she’s streamlined processes—building relationships with the local health department and Social Security Administration and advocating for language changes in shelter orders with Children’s Legal Services to speed up permanency for kids. Brandy’s solution-oriented approach […]