Funds raised will help keep an estimated 600 children out of foster care

Better Together has been selected as a participant in the A Community Thrives campaign, a grantmaking and crowdfunding program funded by the Gannett Foundation, which invests in community-building initiatives across the country related to education, arts and culture, wellness and other positive local nonprofit initiatives.

Better Together is a voluntary, community-driven alternative to foster care that has served over 2,500 children in Southwest Florida and kept 98% of families together. The nonprofit was founded on the belief that loving parents should not lose children because they are having money problems, or had the courage to seek treatment, or got hospitalized without childcare. These challenges can be overcome with the right support system in place.

Here’s how it works: When parents fall into crisis, fully screened and trained volunteers host children in their homes while mentoring parents toward stability. This includes help with finding a job, securing housing, childcare, treatment and more. 

To qualify for a Gannet Foundation grant of up to $100,000, Better Together needs to meet a fundraising goal of at least $6,000 on its own. The community can help Better Together qualify for the grant by donating from Sept. 21 through Oct. 16 at https://acommunitythrives.mightycause.com/organization/Bettertogether.

“Due to COVID-19, the need for our programs is greater than ever. We have seen a jaw-dropping 155% increase in the number of requests for help since March due to the widespread isolation, unemployment, and stress that are putting families at additional risk,” said CEO of Better Together, Megan Rose.

“Through the #BeBetterChallenge, you can help us raise awareness and funds to recruit 100 new host families, 50 family mentors and 20 case coaches to meet the increased demand due to COVID-19. With these resources, we can serve 600 additional children in Southwest Florida with a proven 98% reunification rate.”

With the help of hundreds of volunteers and church communities, Better Together builds lasting support systems that help families cope with hardships – job loss, substance abuse, homelessness and even jail time – and ensures that children are cared for in a safe home until the family can be reunited.

Additionally, Better Together’s “Better Jobs” program has helped nearly 28,000 job seekers find employment through church-based job fairs across 20 states.