A group of youth from Hillsborough County Children's Services attended a Tampa Bay Buccaneers scrimmage, enjoying a day of sportsmanship and camaraderie. The event provided these children, who are in temporary respite care, with a rare opportunity to participate in activities typically not available to them. Attendees also received giveaways, autographs and had the chance to watch professional players in action.
Hillsborough County Children's Services isn't just about providing shelter – it's a comprehensive program offering 24-hour residential respite and emergency assistance for youths aged 10-17. In a push to craft a robust safety net, the service stretches beyond the basics; it helps youth develop life skills, pushes for educational accomplishments, and steers them toward family reunification or long-term stability. These kids are also linked with community-based resources aimed at confronting and circumventing emergencies before they erupt.
The Hillsborough County Children’s Services department is calling on the public to support its enrichment programs through donations. Contributions, whether financial or in-kind—such as event tickets or personal electronics—help provide children in care with a sense of normalcy and support. The county’s Duffels of Dignity program offers a way for individuals to donate items that assist children transitioning through care services.
