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...
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...
Theodore

Theodore

Theodore Age:  5 Years Old LSF- 109223569 Thank you for your interest in adopting a child with moderate to severe therapeutic or medical needs featured on the Gulf Coast JFCS Heart Gallery. Theodore is an adorable and cheerful 5-year-old Caucasian boy with a big smile and an even bigger heart. He’s a sweet, happy little guy who loves books and enjoys being read to—story time is one of his favorite parts of the day!     He also loves spending time outside, especially going to the park where he can run, play, and explore. When it comes to food, Theodore is a great eater—he enjoys both pizza and vegetables, which makes mealtime a fun experience for him.     Theodore would thrive in a family where he had siblings to play with and learn from. He enjoys being around others and would benefit from the joy and connection that comes with a busy, loving...
Shawn

Shawn

Shawn Age:  12 Years OldLSF- 104224973   Thank you for your interest in adopting a child with moderate to severe therapeutic or medical needs featured on the Gulf Coast JFCS Heart Gallery.  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 him. Please note- In order for Shawn to best thrive, he must be the youngest child in the...
Zoey & Emily

Zoey & Emily

Siblings Thank you for your interest in adopting a child with moderate to severe therapeutic or medical needs featured on the Gulf Coast JFCS Heart Gallery. Zoey Age:  11 Years Old LSF – 104015072 Zoey is a bright and creative 11-year-old with a big imagination and an even bigger heart. She absolutely loves reading books and getting lost in magical stories. Writing is one of her favorite things to do—she dreams of becoming a writer when she grows up and is already full of great ideas for stories of her own. When she’s not reading or writing, Zoey enjoys watching TV, listening to music, and getting crafty with arts and crafts. She’s always up for a fun project and loves using her creativity in different ways. Zoey also has a big love for animals and hopes to have pets of her own someday.   Zoey is looking for a family who will truly understand her, support her dreams, and be there for her every step of the way. She’s a thoughtful, kind, and imaginative girl who just wants to be loved and encouraged to be exactly who she is.   Emily Age:  12 Years Old LSF – 103303549   Emily is an energetic and fun-loving 12-year-old Caucasian girl. She has a healthy appetite and isn’t picky when it comes to food—she enjoys everything from cheesy macaroni and gooey pizza to a perfectly cooked steak. A trip to McDonald’s is always a treat she looks forward to! Emily is a big animal lover, especially when it comes to cats. While she adores most furry felines, hairless cats aren’t quite her thing. She’s also...
Serenity

Serenity

Serenity Age: 12 Years Old YFA – 105233422 Thank you for your interest in adopting a child with moderate to severe therapeutic or medical needs featured on the Gulf Coast JFCS Heart Gallery.  Serenity is a bright and energetic Caucasian girl with a heart full of creativity and joy. Her favorite shows are Gracie’s Corner and Bluey and her favorite subjects are reading and writing. She also loves fashion design, collecting fun stickers, drawing, and playing with fidgets. Serenity absolutely adores dolls and has quite a collection. Each one has its own unique personality, and she loves imagining their stories, caring for them, and spending time bringing their worlds to life. She has a gentle, nurturing nature and shows kindness in everything she does. 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...
Michaela

Michaela

Michaela Age: 11 Years Old YFA – 104420563 Thank you for your interest in adopting a child with moderate to severe therapeutic or medical needs featured on the Gulf Coast JFCS Heart Gallery.  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...
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...
Christina

Christina

Christina Age:  15 Years Old LSF – 102056707 Christina (Chrissy) is a vibrant and adventurous 15-year-old Caucasian girl with a love for the outdoors. Whether she’s playing outside, spending time at the beach, exploring new places, or staying active through cheerleading, Christina enjoys making the most of every day. She has a fun-loving personality and loves relaxing with her favorite entertainment, including watching YouTube and Twitch streamers and rewatching her favorite show, iCarly. Creative and expressive, Chrissy dreams of becoming a cosmetologist. Her interests in fashion, dancing, music, and beauty reflect her artistic side and her desire to help others look and feel their best. She enjoys trying new foods and exploring different cultures through cuisine. Some of her favorite treats include Hot Fries and Dr Pepper, and she especially enjoys Brazilian food. One of her favorite restaurants is Flama in Miami. Christina’s favorite color is pink, and she loves all things fun, fashionable, and creative. She also enjoys movies, with Flowers in the Attic being one of her favorites. Looking toward the future, she hopes to travel to Los Angeles someday or go on a cruise. As a Florida native, Christina hopes to remain in her home state, where she feels connected to the sunshine, beaches, and vibrant communities she loves. Animals hold a special place in Chrissy’s heart. While she loves dogs, she also dreams of having a cat that she would name Capri. She would be thrilled to be part of a family that welcomes pets and shares her love for animals. When Christina imagines her future family, she hopes for a loving and supportive African...
Tristan, Wesley

Tristan, Wesley

Siblings Thank you for your interest in adopting a child with mild to moderate therapeutic or medical needs featured on the Gulf Coast JFCS Heart Gallery. TristanAge:  12 Years OldLSF – 103874675 Tristan is a fun-loving, energetic, and very polite Caucasian boy with a big heart and an even bigger appetite—especially when pizza is on the menu. He has a strong passion for sports and enjoys flag football, football, basketball, and motocross. Tristan is also a great swimmer who loves the beach and the ocean, where he feels happiest and most at peace. At school, Tristan participates in chess club and hopes to join the STEM club to further explore his interest in robotics. When he grows up, Tristan dreams of becoming a firefighter, inspired by his desire to help others and make a positive difference in the world. Tristan’s self-titled Heart Art is called Stitch Work, which reflects his creativity, determination, and personal interests. His artwork features Lilo and Stitch coming out of a box and then swimming in the ocean at sunset—a scene that represents his love for the beach and swimming and something he would be excited to be a part of. Tristan used a variety of materials, including clay and ribbon, and even watched a YouTube tutorial during the Heart Art session to learn how to draw Stitch correctly because he wanted his artwork to be perfect. Tristan thrives on attention and affection from adults and is always ready for a hug or a fun moment. He is adventurous, enjoys traveling, and is open to living outside of the state. Tristan would love to have a mom and...