Raina

Raina

Raina Age:  14 Years Old YFA – 105008534 Raina is a bright and gentle 14-year-old Caucasian girl with a passion for exploring the outdoors and discovering new things. She has a unique charm that shines through her love for animals, nature, and the vibrant world around her. Whether she’s playing outside, watching her favorite TV shows, curling up with a good book, or immersing herself in music, Raina finds joy in the simple pleasures of life. Though she may be shy at first, those who take the time to get to know her quickly discover a caring and thoughtful spirit. Raina thrives in an environment filled with love and support, and she dreams of being part of a nurturing family with a mom and a dad—she’s also completely comfortable with having siblings in the home. With an innate need for understanding, patience, and encouragement, she blossoms in settings where compassion is abundant.    ...
Alana

Alana

Alana Age:  16 Years OldLSF – 101142644 Alana is a 16-year-old African American female with a love for both adventure and relaxation. She enjoys school, mainly because it gives her the chance to spend time with her friends. When she’s not studying or socializing, you’ll likely find her enjoying her favorite hobbies, such as roller skating, watching movies, or lounging at home with some TV. She also loves shopping and is a huge fan of spaghetti – it’s one of her all-time favorite meals. Alana has a soft spot for animals, especially cats and dogs, and dreams of getting a cat in the future. She has big aspirations too, with China being her top destination on her bucket list. As for her future career, she’s thinking about joining the military, though she’s still figuring out what path is best for her. Family means the world to Alana, and she values communication, love, and care above all else. She’s open to the idea of having a family even if they live out of state or if she has siblings. Alana has voiced that she would prefer to be adopted by an African American family, however for her, a supportive and loving family dynamic is what matters most.    ...
Matthew

Matthew

Matthew Age: 17 Years Old LSF- 101888844 Matthew is a 17-year-old African American with a passion for music, especially rap. He enjoys expressing himself through rhythm and lyrics, using music as a powerful way to connect with the world around him. In addition to music, Matthew loves playing basketball and staying active. He’s also currently taking scuba diving lessons! While he values his education and enjoys school, his greatest joy comes from spending quality time with friends. Though naturally shy and quiet, Matthew’s gentle and thoughtful nature shines through in his interactions. He’s caring, warm-hearted, and deeply appreciated by those who know him well. Matthew hopes to be adopted by a loving, African American single mother. He would be happy to have siblings in the home and looks forward to being part of a supportive and nurturing family....
Adopted – Nathaniel

Adopted – Nathaniel

Nathaniel Age: 16 Years Old YFA – 105766595 Nathaniel is a passionate Caucasian teen boy with a variety of interests. He loves playing soccer, watching anime, and staying active, often spending time decorating shoes and matching them with his outfits in his favorite colors—black and purple. Roller skating is another hobby that brings him joy and freedom. Family is important to Nathaniel, and he dreams of having a close-knit family with a mom, dad, and more siblings to share experiences and knowledge. He aspires to become a pilot and join the Air Force, with a particular interest in traveling and exploring the world. He’s also fascinated by Japan, enjoying learning about its culture and traditions. Though he loves life in Florida, Nathaniel is eager to travel and try new things. A firm Christian, he values his faith and enjoys attending church, always striving to learn, grow, and chase his dreams....
Mason

Mason

Mason Age: 13 Years Old YFA – 103845488 Mason is a creative and motivated Caucasian teen who finds joy in hands-on activities like woodworking and cooking. He has a strong passion for the culinary arts and enjoys spending his free time building projects and shooting hoops on the basketball court. Academically, Mason excels and is currently expanding his interests by playing football this year.Responsible and thoughtful, Mason has a deep love for agriculture and animals, especially snakes, bearded dragons, and dogs. He dreams of opening restaurants around the globe, blending his love for food with his artistic flair. To make this vision a reality, Mason plans to pursue master’s degrees in both culinary arts and fashion design.He values a nurturing and respectful family environment and is open to having siblings, as long as there’s mutual care and understanding. Mason’s vibrant personality and big dreams make him a truly inspiring young individual.  ...
Alyssa

Alyssa

Alyssa Age: 13 Years OldYFA – 104032211 Alyssa is a 13-year-old Caucasian girl with a shy but loving personality. She’s a big fan of Harry Potter and Percy Jackson, often getting lost in magical worlds filled with wizards, demigods, and epic adventures. In her free time, she enjoys making colorful bracelets, listening to music, watching horror movies, playing with dolls, and riding amusement park rides. Alyssa values her independence and often enjoys quiet time by herself, engaging in the activities she loves. At school, Alyssa is a proud library helper, showing her love for books and her willingness to lend a hand. Her favorite subject is science, where her curiosity and creativity shine. She’s also known for being incredibly thoughtful and caring, always looking out for the people she loves. Alyssa dreams of having a family that will love, care for, and cook for her. While she would love to have two dads, her biggest wish is simply to feel safe and cherished in a family who supports her. With a heart full of kindness, she’s always ready for new adventures and making lasting memories with those she loves. For Alyssa to truly thrive, she would do best in a family where she can be the youngest child, or the only child in the home, so she can receive the attention, support, and care she needs to reach her full potential. An affirming LGBTQ+ family is a need for Alyssa, where she can feel safe, accepted, and celebrated for who she is.  ...
Aiden

Aiden

Aiden Age: 15 Years OldLSF – 102302829 Stay tuned to learn more about Aiden....
Ledgand

Ledgand

Ledgand Age: 10 Years OldLSF – 104302928 Ledgand is a bright and energetic Caucasian 10-year-old who enjoys spending time outdoors and staying active. Whether he’s riding his scooter, exploring local parks, playing games, or simply soaking in the fresh air, Ledgand finds joy in nature and movement. He benefits from a supportive environment where he feels safe to express himself and grow. Ledgand would do well in a home where he is the youngest child, surrounded by caregivers who are patient, understanding, and open to sharing in his love of outdoor adventures. Ledgand is looking forward to connecting with a family that values togetherness, exploration, and encouragement as he continues to discover the world around...
Tradella, Finding Independence with Healthy Youth Transitions

Tradella, Finding Independence with Healthy Youth Transitions

Most young adults rely on their parents to transition into adulthood. Tradella relies on Brandice, a Healthy Youth Transitions Life Coach. Healthy Youth Transitions allows youth in foster care ages 15-22 served by Children’s Services Council of Broward County & ChildNet to get the support they need to thrive and find independence. Thank you Forever Family and NBC 6 for shining the spotlight on resources helping children and teens in foster care. Learn more at...
Allyson

Allyson

Allyson Age: 16 Years OldLSF- 101394262   Allyson is a creative and kind-hearted 16-year-old Caucasian teen who finds joy in arts and crafts, drawing, and reading. She has a deep love for animals, especially farm animals, and dreams of living on a farm with lots of land and pets. Collecting stuffed animals is one of her favorite hobbies, and she enjoys spending time both indoors and outdoors. Allyson also enjoys attending church and listening to country music. Science is her favorite subject, and she’s excited about learning new things, like playing tennis. She loves hibachi food and hopes to travel someday, with Los Angeles at the top of her list. Though she may be shy at first, Allyson opens up once she feels comfortable. She would thrive in a family where she can be the older sibling to younger children. Allyson is open to moving to another state and looks forward to a fresh start with a loving, supportive family who shares her love for animals and the outdoors.          ...
De’Andre

De’Andre

De’Andre Age: 12 years old LSF – 103051164 De’Andre is an energetic 12-year-old African American boy with a passion for football and basketball, cheering for the Ravens and Bengals. He dreams of joining the NFL or NBA and loves sports, gaming, and steak houses. De’Andre also enjoys playing football, spending time at the park and pool, and spending time with friends. De’Andre is eager to bring his enthusiasm and joy to a forever home where he can feel valued. He is looking for a supportive family in Florida who will help him reach his dreams and provide stability, guidance, and...
Jacob, Setting Goals with the Young Adult Transition Program

Jacob, Setting Goals with the Young Adult Transition Program

NBC 6 Forever Family paid a visit to Gulf Coast JFCS to meet Jacob. Roxanne Vargas shares his story. There are so many wonderful free resources for young adults who are struggling with mental health or substance abuse. In this NBC 6 / Forever Family story, learn how Florida Department of Children and Families through the Broward Behavioral Health Coalition helps to ensure that more young adults have the support they need so they themselves, their parents, and their future children can avoid ending up in foster care. Learn more at...
Sydney

Sydney

Sydney Age: 16 years oldLSF-104600639 Sydney is a 16-year-old Caucasian girl who is both shy and sweet. She has many passions including staying active, drawing, playing basketball, and going to the gym. Sydney is also looking towards the future and hopes to go to school for fashion or photography.  Sydney is looking for a family that values quality time together and enjoys adventure. She hopes to travel, partake in outings, and share new experiences with those she cares about. Her ideal family would offer understanding, patience, and a sense of companionship to help her feel supported and cherished.      ...
Ashton

Ashton

Ashton Age: 14 years oldLSF-102302830 Ashton is an energetic 14-year-old Caucasian male who dreams of joining a caring family with pets and older siblings. Ashton is a proud fan of the Miami Dolphins and a pizza lover. He loves to travel, Italy being at the top of his bucket list, but would prefer that his new family has roots in Florida as well. Ashton also enjoys watching Marvel movies, football, drawing, and playing video games.  Ashton’s favorite subject is science, and he takes pride in being athletic, caring, and smart. His friends can always count on him and his supportive nature.  Ashton’s energy, kindness, and determination shine through in everything he does, making him a wonderful teen with so much potential.     ...
Rising housing costs in Tampa Bay impacting refugee programs

Rising housing costs in Tampa Bay impacting refugee programs

Rising housing costs in Tampa Bay impacting refugee programs PRESS RELEASE: Thursday, June 20, 2024 For interviews and b-roll, contact:Hana Cowart, Communications ManagerHana.Cowart@gcjfcs.org, 727-503-7856 Families from War-Torn Countries May Lose Housing, One Local Refugee Program Makes a Plea for Assistance Gulf Coast JFCS is making an urgent appeal for financial assistance and other resources to support refugee families and individuals who have been resettled in the region because of war and conflict in their home countries such as Ukraine and Afghanistan. “Gulf Coast JFCS remains committed to assisting refugees fleeing war and conflict in their home countries. As a result of the rising costs of housing in the Tampa Bay region, our Refugee Assistance Program has reached a tipping point to be able to continue supporting these families who have already been through such heartache,” noted Dr. Sandra Braham, President and Chief Executive Officer of Gulf Coast Jewish JFCS. Without additional resources, the organization cannot continue to fund temporary housing and other living expenses to help these families and individuals from war-torn regions rebuild their lives. Gulf Coast JFCS Refugee Services is in need of: Financial assistance to keep families housed Temporary, free or low-cost housing options Employers seeking to hire refugee individuals who are authorized to work, pending receipt of physical work documents Donations to supply household furnishings to help refugees establish their apartments beyond temporary, emergency housing Donations to support Kosher and Halal food options for refugee families. Donations can be made online at Refugee Assistance Fund – Gulf Coast JFCS or inquiries by email to GulfCoastinfo@gcjfcs.org “In the past two years, Gulf Coast JFCS has assisted...