News

In April 2025, Tabitha and Charlie Driggers officially adopted their twin grandsons, who they’ve cared for their entire lives. The boys are now thriving in a loving, forever home filled with support, laughter, and love.

Today, we're honored to celebrate Curtis & Kristin Campogni , incredible parents to two beautiful children and fierce champions for keeping siblings together. Their unwavering commitment, patience, and advocacy ensured their kids could grow up side-by-side—sharing a home, a childhood, and a bond that will last a lifetime. When we asked what first inspired them to consider adoption, their answer was as heartfelt as their journey: “Our journey toward starting a family, like man

Our recent LEGOLAND Adoption Day brought together 30+ families and 52 amazing kids to finalize their adoptions in a joyful, unforgettable way. After heartfelt ceremonies, families celebrated with a full day of fun in the park—building memories and new beginnings. As we honor National Adoption Month, we’re reminded that every child deserves a loving, forever home.

Adoption can be a beautiful and life-changing experience, but for many, it also comes with deep emotional challenges that last a lifetime. This National Adoption Awareness Month, we are honored to share the story of Grace Brauer  — a former foster youth, adoptee, and founder of Project ACE  — who courageously opens up about her journey. From the joy of being chosen to the lingering pain of past traumas, Grace’s story captures the complexity of adoption and foster care. Throug

Meet the Carney family! Kimberly and Lawrence Carney, loving grandparents, opened their hearts and home to provide stability, safety, and unconditional love for their grandchildren during one of the most challenging times of their lives. Since their adoption in February 2025, these amazing kids have flourished—excelling in school and showing off their athletic talents! 🏀📚 💬 What inspired adoption? “It was the boys’ idea so they can have a forever home.” 💬 How did it fee

This past weekend, thanks to the generosity of William Dunn and the Take a Kid Fishing Foundation, about 17 of our kids from local group homes had the incredible opportunity to head out on the open sea for a deep-sea fishing adventure they’ll never forget!

As the leaves begin to change and the fall season settles in, we’re wrapping up the first quarter of our fiscal year with gratitude and excitement for all that’s ahead! This time of year always reminds us of the importance of community and giving—and there’s plenty of both happening across Polk, Highlands, and Hardee Counties. In this edition, you’ll find: 🎁 An update on the Rudolph Round-Up Toy Drive as we kick off another season of giving 📅 A look at our brand-new Commun

When it came to keeping a set of twins together, Blanca Rodriguez went above and beyond! From building cribs and buying car seats in the middle of the night to quickly connecting with the children and providing a safe, loving environment, Blanca ensured these little ones had stability from day one. Her dedication doesn’t stop there—she continues to support all their needs and shows what true foster parenting looks like. Thank you, Blanca, for going the extra mile and making

A huge thank you to everyone who participated in last week’s Caring Hearts Charities Golf Tournament benefitting Heartland for Children’s Rudolph Round-Up Toy Drive! Because of your generosity and big hearts, over $30,000 was raised to bring holiday joy to children in foster care this season.

💙 Big shoutout to Winter Haven Moose Chapter 1152 for delivering comfort cases to our kids entering foster care! Each case is packed with pajamas, blankets, and stuffed animals—bringing warmth, comfort, and a little extra love during a challenging time. 🧸✨ Thank you for helping us make every child feel safe, cozy, and cared for! 💛

Every parent’s dream is to see their baby grow, thrive, and celebrate that precious first birthday. Practicing safe sleep can help make that dream a reality. Here are a few key tips to create a safe sleep environment: ✅ Always place baby on their back to sleep – for naps and bedtime. ✅ Use a firm, flat mattress in a safety-approved crib. ✅ Keep the sleep area free of blankets, pillows, toys, and bumpers. ✅ Share your room, not your bed – place baby’s crib or bassinet in

Domestic violence can affect anyone, but help is available. If you or someone you know needs support, reach out to your local 24-hour hotline: 📞 Hardee/Highlands Counties: 863-386-1167 📞 Polk County: 863-413-2700 Learn more about available services: https://www.peacerivercenter.org/services/victimservices/s You are not alone.

🏈✨ Yesterday’s All Staff Super Bowl Showdown was a WIN! 🏆 We’ve got the best team in the league right here at Heartland for Children — our MVPs who give it their all every day to see children and families score big victories in our community. 💙 🙌 From defense to offense, teamwork to touchdowns, we couldn’t ask for a stronger roster. Here’s to more WINS for kids and families all season long!

Today, we’re celebrating Andrea Hagan, who has been leading the way as Director at Crystal Lake Elementary, A Community Partnership School, for the past 8 years! 🙌 Andrea plays a vital role in connecting partnerships that help students learn, grow, and thrive. 💙Thank you, Andrea, for guiding your amazing team and making a lasting impact on children and families at Crystal Lake! 👏 👉 Learn more about our Community Partnership Schools: https://www.heartlandforchildren.org/

Last week, we celebrated 17 amazing individuals who have completed Pre-Service Training and are ready to step onto the frontlines of child welfare! 💙 Your decision to serve children and families across Polk, Highlands, and Hardee Counties is a powerful YES to making a difference — and we couldn’t be more proud! 🙌 A big THANK YOU to our partner agencies who helped prepare these new child welfare champions: Children's Home Society of Florida, Lutheran Services Florida & One

🌟 We’re so proud of our very own Kadian Parchment, Prevention & Diversion Program Manager, who was a panelist at this year's DCF Summit to share about the Florida Youth Leadership Academy! Kadian has served as a mentor with this powerful program, which this year welcomed 19 inspiring teens in foster care from across the state. Each youth is paired with a mentor to guide them on their leadership journey. Kadian is more than a dedicated professional—she’s a true leader, a co

Check out our End-of-Year Impact Report, new HFC Website, kicking Rudolph in July, celebrating success stories and sharing resources - ALL in our July newsletter.

Last week, we had the joy of serving over 200 children and blessing our incredible foster and adoptive families as they get ready for a brand-new school year. This wouldn’t have been possible without the support and generosity of our amazing community!

After losing his children’s mother, Terrence moved from New York to Polk County with nothing but determination. With support from our Fatherhood Specialist, Reginald, he overcame homelessness, strengthened his parenting, and reunited with his kids. Now, they’re together and healing.

This year’s theme, “Passport to Possibilities: Navigating the Journey for Kids,” took attendees on an inspiring and interactive journey—exploring the many incredible resources and supports available to help children and families thrive in our community.