WEST REGION
$220,500 FCLF financing
Acquisition & renovation of supportive housing facility

In west central Florida, C.H.O.I.C.E. – or Children Having Opportunities in a Caring Environment – has operated since 2006 providing safe, home-like housing for youth within the Child Welfare and Social Service systems. Additional services are available for program participants as well as their families, including counseling, mentoring, independent living, and emergency placement.

Since inception, CHOICE has served over 150 youth with reunification, adoption, or transition to independent living. Programs and services support youth from Hillsborough, Manatee, Pasco, Orange, and Escambia Counties. CHOICE programs are licensed by the Florida Dept. of Children and Families, and collaboration with county and community-based care organizations ensures successful group home placement with minimal interruptions.

With a loan from Florida Community Loan Fund, CHOICE will purchase and renovate a 1,566 sq ft home to be used for up to 8 youth in foster care, providing community-based group home care with services that promote safety, health, academic achievement, and vocational enrichment. The purchase of this home allows CHOICE to consolidate services that were formerly provided from 2 leased facilities. The home has capacity for future expansion, which will provide homes for additional youth.