Ashley Jackson, a member of FamiliesFirst Network’s Parent Advisory Council (PAC), received the Parent with Lived Experience Leadership Award from the Florida Coalition for Children. This prestigious honor celebrates parents who have faced and overcome significant life challenges and now use that strength to lead, inspire and transform their communities. Ashley’s journey has not been […]

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. […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

When FamiliesFirst Network’s Hannah Cole began her career in child welfare, she didn’t realize how this field of work would shape her life. Starting with case management, Hannah spent more than 5 years working alongside families during some of their most difficult moments. Last year, an opportunity arose, transitioning Hannah to the position of adoption […]

On Tuesday, May 6th, FamiliesFirst Network proudly hosted its 20th Annual Child Welfare Conference! We are grateful to everyone who joined us for an informative and inspiring day where speakers discussed past accomplishments, present challenges and the future potential of child welfare. Thank you to our host, Gateway Church of Christ, and to all of […]

Get ready for the FamiliesFirst Network Spring Fling! This free, family-friendly event is open to the public and packed with fun. Enjoy exciting Easter egg hunts, crafts, games and food. When: Saturday, April 12, 2025, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM Where: (TAC Building) 1201 W Lakeview Ave, Pensacola, Florida 32501 Easter Egg Hunt Schedule: 12PM-12:15 […]

Thanks to Nemours Children’s Specialty Care, parents and children utilizing the Escambia County FamiliesFirst Network service center will now enjoy a newly decorated and welcoming visitation space, plus much-needed amenities supporting foster families. When a child is removed from their biological parent’s home, reunification is the primary goal whenever possible. Visitation plays a crucial role […]