Florida Tackles Fatherlessness with Nation-Leading Initiative

In April 2022, Florida launched the “Father First” initiative, a state-led program designed to combat the alarming rates of fatherlessness and its ripple effects on children, families, and communities. Spearheaded by former Florida House Speaker Chris Sprowls and endorsed by Governor Ron DeSantis, this initiative aims to strengthen families by fostering greater father involvement, mentorship, and education. Florida’s approach positions it as a leader in addressing the negative outcomes associated with absent fathers.

Studies show that children raised without a father are more likely to experience poverty, poor academic performance, emotional distress, and higher risks of substance abuse and criminal behavior. Over 18 million children in the U.S. live in father-absent homes. Former Florida House Speaker Chris Sprowls highlighted the urgency of the issue, stating, “In America, one in four kids will go to sleep tonight without a father in their home. Florida’s Responsible Fatherhood Initiative is the largest undertaking by any state in America to tackle the epidemic of fatherlessness facing our children. The steps we are making to connect dads in the lives of their children won’t just change the trajectory of those families, but it will positively impact nearly every social ill we face as a nation.”

Launched in 2022 with bipartisan support, the Father First initiative is part of Florida’s effort to address the fatherlessness crisis through legislative and community-based actions. The program was initiated under the leadership of Chris Sprowls.

The initiative is supported by an $83 million state investment aimed at assisting fathers and male mentors over four years. Approximately $26.6 million of the funding is dedicated to public awareness campaigns and educational outreach in partnership with Family First, a nonprofit organization based in Tampa. Family First promotes father involvement through its “All Pro Dad” program, which offers fathers practical tools for connecting with their children.

Father First provides fathers with resources, educational programs, and access to a network of community organizations designed to empower them in their children’s lives. A key component of the initiative is the Father First website, which serves as a central hub of information and support. The site offers resources on parenting, links to mentorship programs, and information on available educational tools. The Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) has also created a statewide network of over 30 community organizations that provide direct services to fathers. These services include parenting classes, legal aid for navigating custody and child support issues, and one-on-one mentorship. DCF Secretary Shevaun Harris stated, “We know that when fathers are involved in their children’s lives, there are undeniable benefits. With the help of our partners throughout the state, fathers will have dedicated resources to help them be the father their children deserve.”

Florida’s Father First initiative addresses fatherlessness through legislative measures, substantial funding, and partnerships with local nonprofits. By focusing on mentorship and providing resources to fathers, the program seeks to improve outcomes for children and families.

For more information on the Father First initiative and how to get involved, visit their website at FatherFirstFL.com.