Suncoast Business Forum – CEO Interview Dr. Sandra Braham

Suncoast Business Forum – CEO Interview Dr. Sandra Braham

Air Date: September 25, 2025 Join CEO Sandra Braham, Ed.D, as she shares her personal journey and the story of Gulf Coast JFCS — a community of hope and healing that has touched 30,000 Floridians each year, guided by tikkun olam, a call to repair the...
Suncoast Business Forum – CEO Interview Dr. Sandra Braham

Gun Violence Victims Support Group Beginning

PRESS RELEASE: September 26, 2025 Contact: Hana CowartGulf Coast JFCS Director of Corporate and Community Engagementmedia@gcjfcs.org727-503-7856 Gun Violence Victims Support Group to be Hosted by Dr. Brittany Peters and The Hub The Hub is proud to announce the launch of a new support group for victims of gun violence. The support group will meet virtually via Zoom beginning October 15 at 6 p.m. Sign-up is available at www.StPeteHubs.org or directly at http://bit.ly/4mE0SaV. This new monthly group will provide a space for victims of gun violence to share their experiences, receive professional guidance, and connect with others who have faced similar challenges. The goal is to foster a sense of community and resilience among participants, helping them navigate their healing journey. St. Petersburg has experienced an upward trend in gun violence in recent years. While both local law enforcement agencies and community organizations are actively working to address the underlying causes of this issue, there remains a notable lack of consistent emotional and psychological support services for those directly impacted by gun-related incidents. Individuals affected by gun violence—whether through personal injury, the loss of a loved one, or exposure to traumatic events—often face profound and lasting consequences. To address this need, this new Gun Violence Support Group, hosted by The Hub, will offer a safe environment for participants to share their experiences, process trauma, and receive evidence-based coping strategies facilitated by peers and a licensed mental health professional. The Hub, also known as St. Pete Community Support Hubs, is designed to be a resident-centered, social support space focusing on the needs and well-being of the residents of St. Petersburg. The...
Suncoast Business Forum – CEO Interview Dr. Sandra Braham

12-Year-Old’s Service Project Fortifies Support for Behavioral Health Services

PRESS RELEASE: September 25, 2025 Contact: Hana CowartGulf Coast JFCS Director of Corporate and Community Engagementmedia@gcjfcs.org727-503-7856 12-Year-Old’s Service Project Inspires Community Collaboration with Gulf Coast JFCS, Fortifying Support for Behavioral Health Services In a display of compassion and community spirit, 12-year-old Onyx (Hannah) Weintraub rallied neighbors, community, and friends from across the country this summer in a service project filling “Totes of Hope” to benefit CALL and The Hub, behavioral health services programs under Gulf Coast JFCS. The initiative, inspired by a Pinterest post, has not only delivered vital supplies to those unhoused or experiencing a behavioral health crisis, but also demonstrated the power of youth leadership and collective action. Onyx’s journey began with a simple question: “How can I help?”  Supported by their parents, Rabbi Philip and Rebecca Weintraub, Onyx sought out a local opportunity to make a difference. They chose to integrate the project into their B’Mitzvah, an important milestone in the Jewish faith, marking the transition to adulthood and responsibility. Onyx’s desire was not only to collect items but also to learn firsthand how their actions could help those experiencing homelessness and behavioral health needs in their own neighborhood—close to home, school, and synagogue. A video created and distributed through the Weintraub parents’ social media channels quickly garnered attention, collecting an impressive 1,700+ views and sparking a wave of support. This creative outreach resulted in the assembly of 36 Totes of Hope and a dozen boxes — all filled with all-weather gear, snacks, menstrual and hygiene supplies, and all packed in the family’s living room before being delivered to CALL’s supply area. Gulf Coast JFCS staff...
Suncoast Business Forum – CEO Interview Dr. Sandra Braham

Gulf Coast JFCS Celebrates Local Holocaust Survivors With Second Annual Luncheon

PRESS RELEASE: Thursday, May 29, 2025 For interviews and b-roll, contact:Hana Cowart, Communications Managermedia@gcjfcs.org, 727-503-7856 Gulf Coast JFCS is honored to host its second annual Holocaust Survivors Luncheon, celebrating survivors, their families, and friends as we strengthen bonds across generations. Over a span of two days in Sarasota on June 4 at The Ora  and in Clearwater on June 5 at Congregation Beth Shalom, this event for Holocaust survivors and their guests fosters an atmosphere of joy, unity, and reflection on the experiences that have shaped each attendee’s journey. Now in its second year, this luncheon is not merely a commemoration of the past but a celebration of the present, the bonds formed, the communities built, and the legacies that endure. “Holocaust Survivor Day is not merely a time to remember the past; it is a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who have faced unspeakable hardship and emerged stronger” said Marina Reed, Holocaust Survivor Program Director at Gulf Coast JFCS. “We honor their resilience, celebrate their lives, and reinforce the bonds that unite us. This day ensures their stories continue to inspire future generations, fostering a legacy of strength, unity, and hope.” Contributions to support the Holocaust Survivor Program are warmly welcomed, ensuring that survivors can live comfortably and continue to thrive. Due to the high costs of essentials like medical and home care, survivors’ financial reserves remain of concern and are diminishing. Community support is crucial, and every act of generosity allows communities to come together and uplift one another, fostering strong bonds that will continue to be passed down from generation to generation . According to...
Suncoast Business Forum – CEO Interview Dr. Sandra Braham

Putting Children First

Leading The Path Forward to Forever Families: Gulf Coast JFCS is Breaking Barriers to Adoption PRESS RELEASE: Thursday, May 29, 2025 For interviews and b-roll, contact:Hana Cowart, Communications Managermedia@gcjfcs.org, 727-503-7856 Gulf Coast JFCS is offering innovative solutions for the foster system through the Children First Innovation Fund – a groundbreaking new initiative minimizing obstacles to permanency for children in foster care. Every child deserves the warmth and stability of a safe and loving family but with the support of the foster care dependency system often comes recurring and hindering obstacles which unintentionally hinder the process of bringing children and parents together. A significant barrier in the foster system is the high turnover rate and burnout among child welfare staff attributed to large caseload numbers and high levels of stress associated with the job. This can prolong the adoption finalization and wait times, which in turn creates more stress for the child and family. These persistent and long waiting periods are deeply affecting the mental health of hundreds of children in the Tampa Bay region who end up waiting years for their chance with a future forever family. This causes detrimental and lasting effects on the child’s mental and physical health. With innovative solutions that streamline the adoption process, the Children First Innovation Fund will ensure behind-the-scenes obstacles are reduced, and prevent the already long and often stressful process of the adoption system that is experienced by both the children and staff. These solutions include adoptive placement stabilization support, crisis-intervention, and on-site clinical support for child welfare staff. This initiative is a testament to the power of compassion in action...
Elijah

Elijah

Elijah Age: 11 Years Old LSF- 106902252 Elijah is an imaginative and kind‑hearted Caucasian boy with a deep love for creativity and adventure. His artistic side truly shines through his Heart Art, called “Octoman,” a cartoon character he created and brings to life by writing his own books and stories. Elijah is very creative, thoughtful, hardworking, and funny, often sharing his ideas with enthusiasm and pride. He enjoys painting, doing arts and crafts, and exploring new ways to express himself through art. Music is another favorite of his, often filling his days with rhythm and inspiration. When he’s not creating, Elijah loves relaxing with his favorite TV shows, playing video games, enjoying good food, and spending time at the beach. He’s also an animal lover and hopes to have a dog of his own one day. Elijah dreams of traveling the world in the future, discovering new places, cultures, and experiences. He also hopes for a big, loving family with both a mom and a dad, and would love to have more siblings to share his life with. With his warm heart, creative spirit, and curious mind, Elijah is a bright and hopeful young boy with big dreams for the...
Suncoast Business Forum – CEO Interview Dr. Sandra Braham

A Gift of Hope Now Can Go Farther

$250,000 Match Empowers Refugee Lives PRESS RELEASE: Thursday, May 1, 2025 For interviews and b-roll, contact:Hana Cowart, Communications Managermedia@gcjfcs.org, 727-503-7856 This week marks ninety days since a Trump administration executive order indefinitely paused refugee resettlement, not just for clients served by Gulf Coast JFCS, but across the country. For the last three months, Gulf Coast JFCS has served the last refugee families to arrive through the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program, and they are now moving toward self-sufficiency.  For the past three months, Gulf Coast JFCS continued our commitment to humanitarian assistance supporting nearly 200 refugees who arrived in late January 2025 – among the approximately 2,000 refugee services clients being served today by Gulf Coast JFCS. Under federal law, the required 90-days of initial reception and placement support provided to refugees is closed. Community assistance and financial support enabled Gulf Coast JFCS staff to continue aiding families in achieving self-sufficiency, including settling into new residences, rebuilding relationships with long-separated family members now reunited, enrolling children in school, and securing initial employment opportunities in Tampa Bay.  Although the future of U.S. refugee resettlement remains unclear, Gulf Coast JFCS continues to offer services and support for refugees, asylum seekers, special immigration visa holders, and other individuals and families who are legally in the United States but unable to return to their countries due to war and humanitarian crises. Many are encountering additional difficulties as legal status and work authorization are prematurely terminated, and long-standing protections are reduced. Gulf Coast JFCS refugee programs provide essential workforce development, behavioral health, and service systems navigation to assist our newest neighbors in America in achieving...
Shawn

Shawn

Shawn Age:  12 Years OldLSF- 104224973   Shawn is an energetic and creative biracial boy whose favorite pastime is diving into video games, where he spends hours building and exploring incredible virtual worlds. He’s also a fan of Pokémon, Minecraft and Stranger Things. Away from the screen, Shawn enjoys life’s simple joys: playing the piano, singing, cuddling with a cat, spending time outdoors, and savoring his favorite comfort foods: pizza and mac and cheese. Shawn’s Heart Art was inspired by the Stranger Things universe. While he’s passionate about Pokémon too, Shawn explained, “I couldn’t include Pokémon because they don’t exist in the same universe, and it has to stay accurate.” His artwork depicts a character using their telekinesis powers, which is one of Shawn’s favorite parts of the show.  A true dreamer with a big heart, Shawn longs for a family who will provide unwavering support and encouragement throughout his life. His curiosity about the world continues to blossom, and he hopes to have someone to grow alongside...
Serenity

Serenity

Serenity Age: 12 Years Old YFA – 105233422 Serenity is a bright and energetic Caucasian girl with a heart full of creativity and joy. She absolutely adores Bluey and never gets tired of watching the playful adventures. Whether she’s playing with her Barbies, collecting fun stickers, or drawing colorful pictures, Serenity loves expressing herself in creative ways. She’s always on the move and enjoys staying active—going to the park, running around, and just being a kid! Serenity thrives in environments where she can play, explore, and have fun while feeling safe and supported. What she dreams of most is a family who will be there for her through all of life’s ups and downs. A family that will cheer her on, encourage her creativity, and help her grow into the amazing person she’s meant to be....
Gulf Coast JFCS Partners with National Network to Support Federal Workers Now Navigating Private Sector

Gulf Coast JFCS Partners with National Network to Support Federal Workers Now Navigating Private Sector

Pressing the Reset Button PRESS RELEASE: Friday, April 4, 2025 For interviews and b-roll, contact:Hana Cowart, Communications Managermedia@gcjfcs.org, 727-503-7856 Federal employees preparing to shift into private-sector careers now have a new resource to help navigate the change. ‘Pressing the Reset Button: Transitioning to the Private Sector’ is a three-part virtual workshop series designed to provide essential guidance, practical tools, and confidence for a successful career shift. This interactive series addresses common challenges such as adapting to a new work culture, identifying transferable skills, crafting a compelling résumé, and leveraging strategic networking techniques. Participants will gain valuable insights on financial readiness, overcoming roadblocks, and stepping-stone opportunities that can enhance career prospects. Workshop Details: Session 1: April 9, 2025, at 1PM Eastern, Understand Your Value in the Private Sector (Build the Foundation for a Successful Transition); Registration Link Session 2: April 16, 2025, at 1PM Eastern, Craft a Private-Sector Résumé and LinkedIn Profile (Position Yourself for Success in the Job Market); Registration Link Session 3: April 23, 2025, at 1PM Eastern, Networking and Interviewing in the Private Sector (Make Meaningful Connections and Ace the Job Interview); Registration Link About Gulf Coast JFCS: Protecting the vulnerable, strengthening families, and empowering individuals throughout the state of Florida since 1974, Gulf Coast JFCS helps the most vulnerable people throughout our community, from babies to seniors, to find safety, comfort, and a path toward a fulfilling life. To help as many people as compassionately and comprehensively as possible through complex life challenges, Gulf Coast JFCS programs span a broad human service spectrum reaching more than 30,000 people annually throughout Tampa Bay and beyond. Our programs...
Carol-Anne

Carol-Anne

Carol-Anne Age: 13 Years Old YFA – 102432081 Carol-Anne is a lively 13-year-old Caucasian teen girl with a warm personality and a love for spending time with her friends. She enjoys unwinding with her favorite TV shows and has a passion for trying different foods—especially hamburgers, which she absolutely loves. With a big heart and an adventurous spirit, Carol-Anne dreams of becoming a traveling nurse when she grows up, helping people while exploring new places. She hopes to have a dog someday, as she’s always been fond of them. Carol-Anne also imagines a future with a loving mom and dad, along with younger siblings to share her adventures and laughter with. Life for her is a balance of close connections, exciting travels, and working toward her inspiring goals. ....
Michaela

Michaela

Michaela Age: 11 Years Old YFA – 104420563 Michaela is a bright, energetic biracial girl who enjoys the simple joys in life, like indulging in sweet treats and exploring new subjects at school. She is a curious learner who takes pride in her education and enjoys staying engaged in the classroom. She even attends book club! Michaela especially loves art and can’t resist glitter glue and hands-on creativity. Michaela’s Heart Art piece, titled Pastry Collage, perfectly reflects her cheerful personality and love of desserts. She enjoyed working with vibrant colors and a variety of materials, including layered scrapbook paper, clay, and ribbon. Her artwork features many delicious desserts and was inspired by one of her favorite activities: going out for ice cream with her guardian ad litem, especially to places where she can sample different flavors. In her free time, Michaela loves watching TV, scrolling through TikTok, playing Roblox on her tablet, listening to music, and taking peaceful walks outdoors. She is also discovering new interests, such as hair and makeup, and hopes to start gymnastics classes. Michaela has already begun thinking about her future and would love to work at Zaxby’s as soon as she turns 14. Michaela benefits from a supportive environment that encourages her to express herself and navigate her emotions in a positive way. She is looking for a loving family where she can be the only child and receive the care and attention she needs. Michaela has shared that she would prefer to be adopted by a single mother or a two-mom family. She thrives in a structured, patient, and understanding home where she...
Gulf Coast JFCS Partners with National Network to Support Federal Workers Now Navigating Private Sector

Gulf Coast JFCS Ordered To Cease Services

We Won't Cease Compassion PRESS RELEASE: Wednesday, January 29, 2025 For interviews and b-roll, contact:Hana Cowart, Communications Managermedia@gcjfcs.org, 727-503-7856 Gulf Coast JFCS has been directed by federal contractor, HIAS, to immediately cease the provision of services for 170 newly arrived refugees in Tampa Bay. At 11:57 pm last night our agency received an email and memo from HIAS officials, noting they were directed by the federal government to immediately cease all services to newly arrived refugees and special immigrant visa holders (SIVs). Refugees are not undocumented immigrants, did not enter the United States illegally, and in all cases have been fully vetted, background checked and “invited” to the United States. Most of our newly arrived refugees and SIVs were granted entrance into the United States because of their having supported our military during recent wars, or due to extreme and unfavorable conditions in their native country that forced them to flee. Most have spent significant time in refugee camps, waiting for United Nations countries to select them. The federal government’s confusing language in two OMB directives noted they would not halt support to individuals and that the focus of immigration efforts would be on “removable people” who have engaged in criminal acts. Federal assistance to Tampa Bay’s refugees and SIVs is provided on an individual basis, and they are generally not categorized as removable persons. This cease work order is not only inhumane, but it also puts the onus on nonprofits that are already underfunded while doing the work of our state and federal governments, to “deal with it.”  Because all this work is done on a cost reimbursement...
Jayden

Jayden

Jayden Age:  16 Years OldLSF – 101353243 Jayden is a fun and active 16-year-old Caucasian teen boy with a laid-back personality and a big love for life. He enjoys watching TV to relax, but he also loves getting outside to play sports like soccer and football. Whether he’s on the field or hanging out with friends, Jayden enjoys being active and staying connected to the people around him. A true food lover, Jayden has some favorites that always make him smile—especially hamburgers, rice, and steak. He’s also a big fan of trying new things and dreams of one day traveling the world and experiencing different cultures and cuisines. Jayden is looking for a family that will love and support him unconditionally. He would thrive in a home where he’s the only child, allowing him to have the attention and space he needs to grow and succeed. With the right support and encouragement, Jayden is excited about his future and all the possibilities it holds. Jayden is also hoping to be adopted by an African American family.      ...
Charles

Charles

Charles Age:  14 Years OldYFA – 110609293 Charles is a shy but loving Caucasian teen who finds joy in the simple things. He loves spending time with his tablet watching videos, cartoons, and playing games. Charles thrives on routine and finds comfort in predictability. He enjoys going to school, where he feels secure and engaged. His excitement for learning and structured activities shines through, especially when he knows what to expect. Outside of school, Charles loves going for walks and being in nature, which bring him peace. Charles has a warm and gentle spirit. He is waiting for his forever family—someone who is patient, understanding, and committed to walking alongside him through life. Charles needs a home where he can feel safe, supported, and loved unconditionally. His quiet, independent nature allows him to experience the world in his own beautiful way, and with the right family, he will continue to grow and thrive. Click the video below to learn more about Charles!...