
About Heartland
for Children
What Drives Us &
How You Can Get Involved!
Mission
Vision
To eliminate child abuse and neglect in Polk, Highlands, and Hardee Counties.
Improving safety, permanency, and well-being for all children in Polk, Highlands, and Hardee Counties.
Our Values

Promote diversity, equity, inclusion
and belonging for all.
Approach relationships with respect, integrity and transparency.


Utilize innovation and
excellence to promote best practices.
Approach work and problem solving with creativity and flexibility.


Utilize resourcefulness,
accountability and
efficiency.
In March 2003, Heartland for Children was selected as the lead community-based care agency contracted with the Department of Children and Families to serve Polk, Highlands, and Hardee counties. For over 20 years, we have been dedicated to transforming the child welfare system into a performance-driven, results-oriented network that prioritizes the safety, well-being, and stability of children and families.
As a system administrator, we coordinate a comprehensive network of providers and oversee the following services:
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Protective Services
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Foster Care
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Adoption
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Independent Living
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Prevention
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Family Preservation
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Family Support Services


Heartland for Children is dedicated to ensuring every child and family receives the care and support they need, no matter where they live. Through strong leadership and partnerships across Florida, we work to create safe, stable, and nurturing environments for children. Guided by our commitment to quality and accountability, our mission is to strengthen families, provide essential resources, and improve the lives of the children we serve.