Medicaid

 To apply for Medicaid please click on the link below:

www.myflorida.com/accessflorida

1.    Click “Apply for Benefits”
2.    Click “Apply for Benefits” under Get Started Now
3.    Click “Start a New Application for Food Assistance (SNAP), Medical Assistance and/or Cash Assistance” and Click “Next”
4.    Click “Create an Account” and then Click “Next”
5.    Next, you will need to provide your personal information and choose a User ID and Password. Make sure to check the User Acceptance Agreement. Then Click “Next” and proceed completing your Application with your personal information and submit. Please remember to write down your User ID and Password.

  *If you need any assistance with applying for Medicaid we would be happy to assist you.

Pregnancy Assistance Medicaid Access: Call 866-762-2237 or Fax: 866-325-6023.

MomCare is Medicaid health insurance for pregnant women. It will pay for your prenatal care and other health services. MomCare will help you have a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. It is sponsored by the Florida Department of Health and Florida’s Agency for Health Care Administration. Call the Family Health Line at 1-800-451-2229 for more information.

WIC (Women, Infants & Children) Nutrition Program

Sarasota County
Center Place Health
Sally and Sam Shapiro Babies and Children’s Medical Center
1750 17th St. (at the Glasser Schoenbaum Human Services Center), Building E
Sarasota, FL 34234
941-861-2929

Manatee County
410 6th Avenue East
Bradenton, FL 34208
941-748-0747

WIC (Women, Infants and Children) is a federal nutrition program for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, women who have recently been pregnant, infants, and children under five years of age who meet certain eligibility requirements (including income level).
Eligible program participants receive:
•    Nutrition counseling and breastfeeding support
•    Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) funds which can be used to buy qualified food
To find out if you are eligible contact your local WIC office.

Florida KidCare

Toll Free: 888-540-5437
www.floridakidcare.org

Child Health and Dental Insurance you can afford! Your child may be eligible for health insurance through Florida KidCare, even if one or both parents are working. It’s health insurance for children, from birth through age 18, who do not have insurance. Eligibility is based on income and family size. Apply online or to receive an application call toll free at 888-540-5437. If you are pregnant, you can apply now for your unborn child.

 Sarasota County Schools Food and Nutrition Services

Apply for meal benefits is easy & fast. Apply for free and reduced meal benefits for the school year. Meal applications are accepted online at: http://SarasotaCountySchools.net/departments/fns

 Click on Free & Reduced Application Link.

OB-GYN in Sarasota-Bradenton Area

Medicaid Accepted – call to confirm as doctor’s frequently change their accepted insurance policies.

For a full list of providers call the number on the back of your Medicaid card.

Dr. Kyle Garner (Sunshine/Stay Well)
Gulf Coast Obstetrics & Gynecology
1950 Arlington St., Ste. 203
Sarasota, FL 34239
941-379-6331

Shawn M. Stephens, M.D. and Holli Askren, CNM (Sunshine – low risk patients only)
University Park Obstetrics & Gynecology
2401 University Pkwy., Ste. 201
Sarasota, FL 34243
941-359-8300

 

 Public Health Care Centers

Center Place Health
Sally and Sam Shapiro Babies and Children’s Medical Center
1750 17th St. (at the Glasser Schoenbaum Human Services Center), Building E
Sarasota, FL 34234
941-861-1400
www.centerplacehealth.org

Check website for hours of operation.

Women’s Health Clinic Services:

• Obstetrics
• Prenatal care (for pregnant women)
• Post-partum care (after delivery)
• Gynecology (women’s reproductive health)
• Laboratory (On Site)
• Communicable disease and health screening
• HIV testing, counseling and disease management
• Health education
• Evaluation and care of acute and chronic health problems
• Pharmacy (On Site)
• STD tests and treatment
• Cancer screenings (breast & cervical)
  *Also available at Adult Health Center
• Mammogram and breast health education

Sally & Sam Shapiro Babies & Children’s Medical Center
1750 17th St., Building E
Sarasota, FL 34234
941-861-1400

Check website for hours of operation.

Child Health Services:

• Pediatric care for children from birth through age 17
• Support for Breastfeeding

Manatee County Health Department
410 6th Ave. E.
Bradenton, FL 34208
941-748-0747
manatee.floridahealth.gov
Check website for hours of operation.

• Clinical & Nutrition Services
• Wellness Services

East Manatee Health & Wellness Center
1312 Manatee Ave. E.
Bradenton, FL 34208
941-776-4000
www.mcrhs.org/site_east_manatee.php

West Manatee Health Center
52318 Manatee Ave. W.
Bradenton FL 34205
941-714-7150
www.mcrhs.org/site_west_manatee_health_center.php
Check website for hours of operation.

• OBGYN
• Pharmacy

Lawton Chiles Children and Family Healthcare Center
1515 26th Ave. E.
Bradenton, FL 34208
941-708-8600
www.mcrhs.org/site_lawton_chiles.php

Check website for hours of operation.

• Dental
• Pediatrics

River Landings OB/GYN
5460 63rd St. E., Ste. B
Bradenton, FL 34203
941-316-8200
www.mcrhs.org/site_river_landings.php
Check website for hours of operation.

• OBGYN

 Healthy Families

Healthy Families Sarasota
4620 17th St.
Sarasota, FL 34235
Phone: 941-371-8820 ext. 1900
Email: info@thefloridacenter.org
www.thefloridacenter.org/healthy-families

Contact:
Ms. Debbie Keyso
debbie.keyso@thefloridacenter.org

Healthy Families Manatee
6428 Parkland Dr.
Sarasota, FL 34243
Phone: 941-827-2887 (Main)
manatee.caa.org/hfm.asp

Contact:
Ms. Linda Hedrick
lhedrick@manateecaa.org
Direct Phone: 941-827-0188

Healthy Start

Healthy Start Sarasota
2200 Ringling Blvd.
Sarasota, FL 34237
Phone: 941-861-2905
www.healthystartsarasota.org

Healthy Start Manatee
410 43rd St. W., Ste. N
Bradenton, FL 34209
Phone: 941-714-7541
www.hsmanatee.com

Please visit your county’s Healthy Start website to find out more about the program and how to enroll. Healthy Start is a community-based program for expectant and new mothers, infants through age three, and their families.

 

Pediatricians

First Physicians Group/Enas Sallam, MD
Sarasota Memorial Care Center
5350 University Pkwy., Ste. 101
Sarasota, FL 34243
941-917-4675
www.firstphysiciansgroup.com

University Pediatrics/Patricia Blanco, MD
8460 Cooper Creek Blvd., Ste. 101
University Park, FL 34201
941-360-1266

Meyer Pediatrics
1666 Mound St.
Sarasota, FL 34236
941-365-5898
www.meyerpediatricsonline.com

Dr. Eric Patrusky
3920Bee Ridge Rd., Bldg. B
Sarasota, FL 34233
941-377-8687
www.patruskypedsdoc.com

Whole Child
408 Manatee Ave. E.
Bradenton, FL 34208
941-922-5366

West Coast Pediatrics/Constance Charles-Logan, MD
1414 59th St. W.
Bradenton, FL 34209
941-761-0663
www.westcoastpediatricsmd.com

 Child Birth Classes and Education

Sarasota Memorial Hospital Childbirth Education Department
941-702-6691
www.smh.com (search childbirth education)

This department provides education by registering clients for Childbirth Classes and OB tours at the hospital. Registration may also be done online. OB tours are free; however, there is a fee for classes. If you are registered with Healthy Start they may be able to provide some assistance with these fees. This would need to be arranged with your Healthy Start Care Coordinator.

If you plan on delivering your baby at Sarasota Memorial Hospital, they now give you the option of watching the Epidural video online. The video is approximately five minutes long and is available in English and Spanish. After you have watched the video, you will be redirected to a “Proof of Viewing” Certificate that can be printed and brought to your OB and to the hospital on the day of your delivery.

The Epidural video can be viewed at: www.sarasotaanesthesia.com

Once on the site, click on Labor Epidural Video on the left side of the page.

 Material Assistance

Here at My Choice Pregnancy Center we have diapers, clothes, formula, baby furniture. If you participate in programing you are eligible to earn additional items from the Thrift Store.

Mothers Helping Mothers
5933 N. Washington Blvd.
Sarasota, FL 34243
Located just South of University Parkway on the West side
941-953-7572
www.mhmsarasota.com
Email: mhmsarasota@gmail.com

Open by appointment only.

This is an all-volunteer not-for-profit organization that has been providing basic necessities, such as clothing and baby items to families in need. All items are donated or purchased through grant funding or private contributions and are provided free of charge to their clients. Additionally, they offer emotional support and referrals to other agencies in the surrounding area.

Friendship Baptist Church Clothes Closet Ministry & Sprout Truck
5700 Palmer Blvd.
Sarasota, FL 34232
941-371-2301

Clothes closet ministry provides free clothing to families.
Sprout Truck is on site the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of the month.
10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Child Passenger Safety Classes

Classes and individual appointments are designed to show you how to properly install and use your car seat. To ensure every child travels safely, this program offers car seats a reduced cost for those that meet program criteria.

If you plan to obtain a low-cost seat you should meet the following criteria:
• The car seats are designated for families who are not able to purchase a car seat at a regular cost.
• If your child already has a seat, he/she is not eligible for another seat (for another vehicle). The seats are for children who currently do not have a seat or are outgrowing their current car seat.
• While this is not checked, many parents obtaining car seats have some governmental assistance, such as Medicaid, WIC food stamps or a Healthy Start referral.
• Seats available for participant are convertible seats, which accommodate children from infancy (rear-facing starting at 5 lbs) to the forward-facing (up to 65 lbs). Donations of $20 per car seat are collected at classes (cash or money orders only). The donation amount may vary accommodating special circumstances such as high weight limit or special referral.
• Supplies are limited to one car seat per child and appointments are required.

Information and Registration
A nationally certified child passenger safety technician teaches all classes and will also assist you as you install your car seat in your vehicle.
Classes are offered during the month at various times. All appointments must be scheduled online. Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital offers classes at the following locations:
• Johns Hopkins All Children’s Outpatient Care, Lakeland
• Johns Hopkins All Children’s Outpatient Care, Pasco
• Johns Hopkins All Children’s Outpatient Care, Sarasota
• Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital Main Campus, St. Petersburg

To review available classes and register please visit: https://www.hopkinsallchildrens.org/community/safe-kids/child-passenger-safety/car-seats

 

 La Lache League of Sarasota and Manatee Counties

 http://suncoastlll.wordpress.com/2009/06/02/hello-world/

La Leche League International strives to help mothers worldwide to breastfeed through mother-to-mother support, encouragement, information, and education, and to promote a better understanding of breastfeeding as an important element in the healthy development of the baby and mother.

Monthly groups discuss:

1. Breastfeeding: The Healthy Choice -Nursing benefits for baby, mother, father, families and the world
2. Baby Arrives– Preparing for birth, establishing nursing in the early weeks, & including dad, sibling/s, & grandparents
3. Art of Breastfeeding & Avoiding Difficulties – The normal course of breastfeeding, recognizing challenges, caring for yourself, getting support
4. Nutrition & Weaning– Starting solids, family nutrition, extended nursing, approaches to weaning, loving guidance

For assistance in your area contact one of the below (please check website as these contacts may change):

Christine – 941-374-3870 – Sarasota/Clearwater – accepts texts

Debbie – dee1mail@yahoo.com – Sarasota

Jules – 773-704-1438 – Sarasota

Julia – 941-918-1767 juliagriffith@msn.com – Osprey/Venice/North Port/Sarasota

Tanya – 941-705-8538 – Bradenton – text only

Heather – 941-929-3637 – Sarasota

Sarasota Memorial Hospital – Breastfeeding Warm Line and Lactation Consultant for L&D and Mother/Baby Unit – 941-917-7413

Sarasota Memorial Hospital – Lactation Consultant Pediatrics & Neonatal Intensive Care Unit – 941-917-2833

Sarasota County Health Department – Healthy Start – 941-861-2905

WIC and Nutrition Breastfeeding Coordinators: Collin Carpenter (Sarasota): 941-861-2929

 Parenting Education Classes

Here at My Choice Pregnancy Center we offer classes in life skills, childbirth, parenting and support with academic programs.

Parenting Matters, formerly Family Partnership Center
www.parentingmattersfl.org
941-756-3007

Serving families residing in Manatee and Sarasota counties by offering in-home parenting services, community-based groups, classes and workshops. Parenting Matters delivers programs that foster the effective parenting of children and youth.

Programs are FREE to parents and caregivers and are offered daytime and evenings, many with free childcare. Parenting is the most important job in the world and they believe that all parents deserve up-to-date information and support as they learn to do the job effectively. Because of Parenting Matters, no one has to do it alone!

PARENTING EDUCATION

• helps parents guide their child through childhood toward healthy adulthood
• enhances family relationships and promotes family resiliency
• is consistent with current, validated research and information regarding child and adult development
• is based on best practices and principles of parenting education and family support
• promotes knowledge and skills through education and support for all parents. Recognizes, respects and responds to the unique contexts, religious,racial/ethnic and cultural diversity of each family
•  is an effective resource for a strength-based approach to serving all families

Children First Families First Institute
1723 N. Orange Ave.
Sarasota, FL 34234
941-953-3877 or 941-953-5507, ext. 127
info@childrenfirst.net or jbaker@childrenfirst.net
For a list of upcoming classes visit www.childrenfirst.net and view their course catalog.

Offers family strengthening and family enrichment programs that focus on key areas to further enhance the lives of Head Start, Early Head Start, and community families. The primary objective is to support parents as primary educators, nurturers and advocates for their children and to assist parents in achieving greater self-sufficiency and parenting. Workshops and classes focus on career, child development, parenting strategies, fatherhood, money management, personal well-being and continued growth.

Housing Options Available

Manasota Solve
1509 8th Ave. W.
Bradenton, FL 34205
941-748-0094
www.solvehomes.org
info@manasotasolve.org

SOLVE Maternity Homes has been helping women of all ages and their families with unplanned pregnancies. SOLVE Maternity Homes provides a structured program for young women and teenagers by providing housing, education, counseling, health care resources, childbirth and parenting classes, adoption assistance, and spiritual support for the duration of their pregnancies and a period of time afterbirth. Each home has a live-in house manager who oversees the day to day operation including taking residents to appointments, group activities and to the grocery store. With the help of their case manager, residents make a concrete and practical plan for their future.

Our Mother’s House/Catholic Charities
P.O. Box 2240
Venice, FL 34284
941-485-6264
www.ourmothershousedov.org

Provides single mothers and their children a safe and secure environment in which to achieve self-sufficiency through education, vocational training and personal growth. Low cost housing and free child care affords single moms the opportunity to attend school and work. On site programs such as parenting, self-esteem and budgeting enhance the experience of living at Our Mother’s House and assists moms to develop life skills for independence and self-sufficiency.

Our Mother’s house has partnered with Children’s First and established an Early Head Start program on site. It is a licensed program with certified teachers.

Kimberly Home Inc.
1189 N.E. Cleveland St.
Clearwater, FL 33755
727-443-0471
www.kimberlyhome.org

Transitional housing is provided to pregnant women and new moms in a safe and loving campus environment. While participating in our mentoring program, residents receive assistance in finding a permanent home and childcare, parenting, nutrition, money management and life skills education.

Sunlight Home
P.O. Box 9194
Naples, FL 34101
239-352-025
www.sunlighthome.org
info@sunlighthome.org

A residential home that provides a safe, loving, family atmosphere that serves pregnant women and teens. A safe haven offering help toward physical, emotional and spiritual wholeness.

Lifeline Family Center, Inc.
907 S.E. 5^th Ave.
Cape Coral, FL 33990
24 Hour Hotline 239-772-HOPE (4673)
239-242-7238
www.lifelinefamilycenter.org
lifeline4moms2b@lifelinefamily.org

Provides young women (ages 16-25) in crisis pregnancy a safe home and learning environment along with educational training, job training, professional counseling, parenting classes, and spiritual direction during this most important time in their lives. Can have one additional child under the age of two.

St. Gerard Campus
1405 U.S. 1 South
St. Augustine, FL 32084
904-829-551, 24 hour hotline 800-833-6073
www.stgerardcampus.org
St. Gerard Campus is a non-profit maternity home and Christian high school for pregnant teenagers, promoting empowerment through education with strong Christian values. In addition, through the St. Gerard Pregnancy Center, we are able to help women of all ages with pregnancy testing, sonograms and counseling. All services are free of charge.

One Stop Housing
8440 N. Tamiami Trail
Sarasota, FL 34243
941-586-4947
Email: mawad@vwinc.com
www.onestop-housing.com

Affordable housing in Sarasota and Manatee counties. They offer a diversity of rentals including apartments, duplexes, villas, townhomes, houses, etc.

Turning Points
701 17th Ave. W.
Bradenton FL 34205
941-747-1509
Email: info@tpmanatee.org
www.tpmanatee.org

Turning Points provides services for men, women and children that are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless in Manatee County. They help with showering, laundry, clothing, employment assistance, job readiness and placement training, ID’s, etc. Other services include financial assistance to those in need of help with utilities and health care services.

Salvation Army Center for Hope
1400 10th St.
Sarasota FL 34236
941-954-4673

Salvation Army Quality Life Center
Glasser-Schoenbaum Human Services Center
1750 17th St., Suite J1
Sarasota FL 34234
941-365-4545

Salvation Army Center for Worship and Service
1701 S. Tuttle Ave.
Sarasota FL 34239
941-364-8845
www.salvationarmysarasota.org

The Salvation Army provides daily meals and services to those in need. For those needing housing, Salvation Army provides an emergency shelter for adults. They have transitional living and rehab programs. They have separate dorms for men, women and children. Other services include case management and assistance with utilities, clothing and food pantries.

The Salvation Army’s Quality of Life By Choice Program (QLife) offers free shelter and case management including goal setting to help clients develop a plan to end their homelessness.

Their Pathway of Hope Resident Services Program (Formerly Faith Program) helps families with children achieve self-sufficiency and housing permanency. The Resident Services Program provides housing services, financial counseling and planning, case management, education and support services. Families who meet the criteria are required to pay no more than 30 percent of their income to reside in their low-cost furnished apartments. For current information and requirements for the program, please contact the Salvation Army at the numbers indicated above.

Jewish Family and Children’s Services
2688 Fruitville Rd.
Sarasota FL 34237
941-366-2224
www.jfcs-cares.org

The Building Strong Families Homelessness Prevention Program at JFCS provides case management, counseling and cash assistance to families at risk of becoming homeless, with the goal of financial stability and self-sufficiency. The program has locations in Bradenton, Sarasota and North Port, and serves clients in Manatee and Sarasota Counties. Clients must meet the program’s criteria to qualify.

Family Promise of Sarasota
P.O. Box 48199
Sarasota FL 34230
941-952-1800
www.familypromisesarasota.org

Family Promise of Sarasota helps families with minor children who have lost their housing, in partnership with area congregations. They provide shelter, meals, basic need items, case management, referrals and resources. They can assist families for up to 90 days. To be considered, families must not be actively using drugs/alcohol, have severe mental health issues or have felony records. Initial screening can be done over the phone, and clients can call or be referred by other agencies such as 211 or Salvation Army. All adults meet with an Employment Consultant and a Financial Counselor to help them with budgeting and securing employment.

Florida Housing Search
877-428-8844
www.floridahousingsearch.org

The housing locator service allows people to locate available housing that best fits their individual and family needs. Access online 24 hours a day or by a toll-free, bilingual call center Mon. – Fri. 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Sarasota Housing Authority
269 S. Osprey Ave.
Sarasota, FL 34236
941-361-6210
Email: info@sarasotahousing.org
www.sarasotahousing.org

Manatee Housing Authority
Administration, Public Housing and Maintenance
5631 11th Street East
Bradenton, Florida  34203
Or
Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher (HVC) Department
538 East 48th Street Court
Bradenton, Florida  34208
941-756-3974
www.manateehousing.com

For eligibility and application information please visit the website.

Adoption Resources

Adoption Resources Inc.
A dba of Angels Among Us In Florida, Inc.
5277 N. Tamiami Trail
Sarasota, FL 34234
941-360-3600
Email: cghuston@aol.com

Provides services to those experiencing an unplanned pregnancy. Each expectant mother is supported by her Adoption Advocate throughout the pregnancy and after the child is born. Assistance with housing, medical, food, clothing and transportation is provided.

 Mental Health Counseling/Substance Support/Abuse Support

For a complete list of local drug and alcohol rehab facilities please visit www.rehabs.com/local/sarasota-fl

First Step Addiction Recovery Programs
4579 Northgate Ct.
Sarasota, FL 34234
941-366-5333 or 800-266-6866
www.fsos.org

First Step of Sarasota provides high quality, affordable substance abuse treatment and recovery programs. They offer a variety of programs including a medical detox, residential and outpatient services for adolescents, adults and families. At First Step, you or your loved one can learn to live a life of recovery.

Programs include a specialized Mother & Infants program for pregnant and post-partum women with a substance abuse problem. Mothers & Infants is a safe supportive program that combines group and individual counseling with parenting, nutrition and life management skills classes. The program emphasizes the health of the mother and her infant and provides the women with the necessary skills for on-going recovery, self-sufficiency and family reunification.

Clients may stay in treatment for one year. Infants remain with the mother in treatment after birth. Women must be at least 18 years of age and pregnant to enter the program.

Prodigal Daughters Recovery Home
2708 De Soto Rd
Sarasota FL 34234
941-351-0652
www.prodigaldaughters.net

Prodigal Daughters is an 18 month substance abuse residential/rehab program for pregnant women and Moms with children 12 years of age and younger. Services include Group, Individual, Career and Christian counseling as well as Empowerment and Parenting classes. This is a new Christian-based program. Prodigal Daughters strives to help women who have struggled with substance abuse achieve financial, emotional and spiritual independence.

Bayside Center for Behavioral Health
1625 S. Osprey Ave.
Sarasota, FL 34239
941-917-7760
www.smh.com

Sarasota Memorial Hospital developed Bayside Center for Behavioral Health, a continuum of care for mental health on the Gulf Coast. To best meet patients’ needs, they developed reciprocal referral sources throughout Sarasota County. They provide support for everything from depression or anxiety to substance abuse.

Center for Change of Florida
Pen West Park
2801 Fruitville Rd., Ste. 100
Sarasota, FL 34237
941-955-5518
www.cfcfl.org

A full-service, Outpatient Mental Health practice. The Center provides treatment to adults, older adolescents, couples and families covering a broad spectrum of emotional problems, including mood disorders, anxiety, addiction, eating disorders, adjustment disorders, relational problems, family dynamics and trauma.

Coastal Behavioral Healthcare, Inc.
1451 10th St.
Sarasota, FL 34236
24 Hour Crisis Stabilization Unit: 941-364-9355
Behavioral Health Access Center: 941-552-1950
www.coastalbh.org

Services Include Mental Health, Substance Abuse, Severe & Persistent Mental Health Illness, Prevention & Intervention.

Harvest House Transitional Centers
209 N. Lime Ave.
Sarasota, FL 34237
941-953-3154
Email: info@harvesthousecenters.com
www.harvesthousecenters.com

A faith-based, residential facility for individuals whose lives have become unmanageable because of homelessness and/or drug & alcohol addiction; we are a second chance at life.

Serenity Place at Doctor’s Hospital
941-342-4461
www.doctorsofsarasota.com/our-services/behavioral-health.dot

Doctor’s Hospital is home to the area’s only voluntary inpatient behavioral health program dedicated to the needs of adults. Offering specialized care to meet your unique needs in a private and spacious environment.

Centerstone Hospital & Addiction Center
2020 26th Ave. E.
Bradenton, FL 34208
941-782-4150 or 941-782-4617
www.manateeglens.org

A private behavioral health hospital and outpatient practice specializing in adult and childhood mental health and addiction disorders including:

• Depression and Anxiety
• Bipolar and Schizophrenia Disorders
• Obsessive Compulsive Disorders
• Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity
• Alcohol, Drug and Prescription Pain Medication Abuse

Operation Par – Manatee
6253 14th St. W.
Bradenton, FL 34207
941-753-0877
www.operationpar.org

Operation Par – Sarasota
6124 S. Tamiami Trail
Sarasota, FL 34231
941-925-6672
www.operationpar.org

Operation Par assists families experiencing the harsh realities associated with substance abuse and mental health issues.

Hope Family Services
941-747-8499
Email: info@hopefamilyservice.org
www.hopefamilyservice.org

To promote safety, strength and well-being for those affected by domestic violence in Manatee County. HOPE’s primary purpose is to provide services to survivors of domestic violence and help them stay safe, gain strength, and evaluate their options.

Safe Place and Rape Crisis Center (SPAARCC)
2139 Main St.
Sarasota, FL 34237
Administration Number: 941-365-0208
24-Hour Crisis Hotline: 941-365-1976
www.sparcc.net

SPARCC is the only state-certified center for domestic violence and sexual assault services for Sarasota and DeSoto Counties. Services are free and confidential. Programs and services include emergency shelter, 24-hour hotline, crisis counseling, safety planning, children’s services, transitional housing and more.

Anne K. Glowacki, MSW, LCSW
Journey of Life Counseling
2033 Wood St., Ste. 115
Sarasota, FL 34237
941-323-0733
annekg@me.com
www.counselingsarasota.com

Individual, Couples & Family Counseling. Psycho and hypnotherapy. Anne will work with our clients based on a sliding scale. Please refer to My Choice Pregnancy Center when contacting her office.

Alcoholics Anonymous
AA Helpline: 941-951-6810
www.aasrq.org

Narcotics Anonymous
NA Helpline: 941.257-5055
www.naflorida.org

Al-Anon
941-749-1750
Visit the below website for meeting times and locations:
www.al-anon12.org

Addiction Center
www.addictioncenter.com
A free web information guide that connects addicts and their families with the help they need to put their lives together.

GED Classes

Sarasota County Technical Institute
4748 Beneva Rd.
Sarasota, FL 34233
941-924-1365, EXT. 62390
www.suncoast.edu

Manatee Technical College
6305 S.R. 70 E.
Bradenton, FL 34203
Phone: 941-751-7900, ext. 2215
www.manateetech.edu/programs/adult-general-education

Anyone who is 16 years of age or older and officially withdrawn from high school is eligible to take the GED test. If you pass all four subjects (math, reasoning through Language Arts, Science and Social Studies), you will earn a State of Florida High School Diploma.

Sarasota Housing Authority Community Center
269 S. Osprey Ave., Ste. 100
Sarasota, FL 34236
941-361-6210
www.sarasotahousing.org

Students will receive free GED preparation, technical instruction, career training classes and one-on-one counseling.

Literacy Council of Sarasota
Glasser Schoenbaum Center, 1750 17th St., Ste. K-3
Sarasota FL 34234
941-955-0421
www.sarasotaliteracy.org

Offers ESOL, GED and Adult Basic Ed training in Sarasota. They also host an English Conversation Group. A one-time $10.00 Registration fee is required and classes are $25.00. One-on-one tutoring is also available.

Project Light – English Classes

Beginner to Advanced English Classes
Literacy Center of Manatee
1104 14th St. W.
Bradenton, FL 34205
941-745-1659
Email: info@projectlightofmanatee.org
www.projectlightofmanatee.org

$30 registration fee (includes textbooks)

Classes are offered in the morning and evening and students can join the class anytime.  Four language levels, beginning to advanced.

Monday – Friday 9 – 11:15 a.m.
Tuesday/Thursday 6 – 8 p.m.

 Cyesis at Riverview High School

CYESIS Program contact information:

Riverview High School: Erin Del Castillo, Assistant Principal       Phone: 941-923-1484

North Port High School: William Massolio, Interim Principal        Phone: 941-423-8558

http://sarasotacountyschools.net/departments/pupilsupportservices/default.aspx?id=26501

The CYESIS Program began in response to this community’s concern for teen parents and their children. Students remain in school, have babies of adequate birth weight, and graduate with plans for their future. The program was an integral part of the State of Florida’s decision that all teen parents have a right to an education with ancillary services in place until graduation.

A strong academic program focuses on skill development, parenting education, and meeting credit and assessment requirements for graduation. Students are given assistance and counseling in educational and career opportunities, enabling them to leave RHS with options and plans for continued success. Under the guidance of a supportive staff, pregnant and parenting teens may elect to take mainstream courses or more individualized courses through the APEX computer program and Florida Virtual School. Teen parents are also offered rich academic opportunities including foreign languages, career and technical education, physical education, art, and extracurricular activities. The academic program of studies is designed to meet the needs of each pregnant and parenting student enrolled in the CYESIS Program through a small-community atmosphere. The comprehensive high school setting provides all students with the tools needed for lifelong success.

CYESIS Child Care Program Philosophy Young children learn through experiencing their environment, social interactions with others, physical movement, and a variety of play opportunities. The CYESIS Program is a nationally accredited childcare program offering nurturing childcare centers that follow developmentally appropriate practices. This inclusive classroom model enables each young child to develop the necessary skills for physical, intellectual, social, and emotional growth so that school readiness is achieved. The curriculum goals for all children in our care include:

• Recognition of family members, friends, and caregivers in their environment.
• Development of age-appropriate thinking skills and communication skills.
• Achievement of developmental milestones in areas of motor development.
• The appropriate use of tools (toys, eating utensils, art materials, etc.).
• Appropriate expression of feelings.
• Familiarization of daily routines.

 School Board of Manatee County Teen Parent Program (TAPP)

TAPP Counselor
941-751-6550 ext. 2044

The primary goal of the program is to facilitate the completion of high school for any expectant mothers, fathers or teenage parents. Child care and transportation are offered to all students attending the Teen Parent Programs at Central High School and all district assigned schools. Students are eligible to recei ve counseling depending on their specific need. The program is designed to identify and support a student with special needs associated with teen parenting. Referrals to community agencies are made when appropriate.

Round trip bus transportation will be provided for you and your child. However, it takes at least five school days for transportation to be scheduled. If transportation is cancelled for any reason, it will take another five days for it to resume. Call your counselor to arrange for bus service as soon as your child is born.

Students may choose to attend the Teenage Parent Program at central High School or they may attend their district zoned middle or high school. Additional education options can be designed when necessary.

CareerSource Suncoast

The CareerSource Suncoast is open Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visit them on the web at www.careersourcesuncoast.com

CareerSource Suncoast – Bradenton (Full Service)
1112 Manatee Ave. East
Bradenton, FL 34208
Phone: 941-358-4200
Fax: 941-358-2820

CareerSource Suncoast – Sarasota (Full Service)
3660 N. Washington Blvd.
Sarasota, FL 34234
Phone: 941-358-4200
Fax: 941-358-2820

CareerSource Suncoast– Venice (Full Service)
676 S. Tamiami Trail
Venice, FL 34285
Phone: 941-358-4200
fax: 941-358-2820

CareerSource Suncoast is dedicated to helping our area’s employers and people looking for employment. As a non-profit organization, they connect local businesses with qualified employees, provide access to a statewide database of job openings, offer quick links to the most up-to-date job market research, assist with résumé writing and interviewing techniques.

The GED diploma is awarded upon successful completion of a series of tests that measure a person’s academic knowledge and skills in writing, social studies, science, interpreting literature and the arts, and mathematics. GED preparation classes are available.  GED study labs are available at all CareerSource Suncoast locations in Bradenton, Sarasota and Venice.

To be eligible, one must be a Florida resident and 16 years of age or older.

Florida Coalition Against Domestic Violence (FCADV)

Florida Coalition Against Domestic Violence
425 Office Plaza Dr., Tallahassee, FL 32301
Phone 850-425-2749    Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-500-1119

The mission of the Florida Coalition Against Domestic Violence (FCADV) is to create a violence free world by empowering women and children through the elimination of personal and institutional violence and oppression against all people. FCADV provides leadership, advocacy, education, training, technical assistance, public policy and development, and support to domestic violence center programs.

Florida’s Welfare Transition Program: The Welfare Transition Program is Florida’s plan for providing eligible families with services that will assist them in becoming self-sufficient.

Services include:
•    Job Search, Job Preparation, and Job Placement
•    Education and Training
•    Case Management and Counseling
•    Subsidized Child Care
•    Transportation Assistance
•    Relocation Assistance
What are the eligibility requirements for WTP? Families who receive temporary cash are automatically eligible for services. These families may be required to participate in a work activity as a condition of receiving benefits. To be eligible for cash benefits, an applicant must:
•    Be a U.S. citizen or qualified non-citizen
•    Be a legal resident of the state
•    If the applicant is under the age of 18, reside with a custodial parent, relative caregiver, or in another setting approved by the Department of Children and Families
•    Include a minor child in the family
•    Meet income and resource guidelines

Families who do not receive cash assistance may be eligible for services if they are defined as “needy”. In order to be determined as needy, the total income for the family must be below 200% of the federal poverty level for the family size, and one or more of the following circumstances must apply:
•    Be a victim of Domestic Violence
•    Be a family
•    Be a family at risk of welfare dependency due to substance abuse or mental illness
•    Be a family with children at risk for abuse or neglect
•    Be a family which has previously received cash benefits and is transitioning to full-time work
•    Be an individual targeted for teen pregnancy prevention activities and services
•    Be a custodial parent
What is required of participants in WTP? During the application process for cash benefits, Medicaid, and/or food stamps, applicants will be required to cooperate with Child Support Enforcement unless they have a good reason not to. Good reasons for not cooperating include:
•    Increased risk of physical, emotional, or sexual abuse to the applicant or another family member
•    A child conceived as the result of incest or rape

If the applicant does not have a good reason for not cooperating, they will be expected to:
•    Assist in establishing paternity
•    Assist in identifying and locating the non-custodial parent
•    Assist in establishing, modifying, or enforcing an order for support
Families who receive cash benefits will be required to assign rights to any child support money collected while they are receiving benefits over to the Florida Department of Children and Families. Participants in the welfare transition program will also be required to participate in a minimum of 30 hours of work activities weekly. Work activities include:

•    Working for a private employer
•    Working for an employer who is subsidized (given money) by the program
•    Vocational education
•    On-the-job training
•    Community service
•    Workfare (work for a not-for-profit agency in exchange for your cash benefit check)

For more information, including a list of exemptions and ways this affects domestic violence victims, visit their website at http://www.fcadv.org/projects-programs/florida-welfare-transition-program

 Sarasota Vocational Rehab

Vocational Rehab Division
3660 N Washington Blvd., Suite 216
Sarasota, FL 34234-6258
Phone: 941-359-5670
Fax: 941-359-5633
Michele Guilford, Supervisor

Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) is a federal-state program that helps people who have physical or mental disabilities get or keep a job. VR is committed to helping people with disabilities find meaningful careers.

Benefits
• Earn a salary while training
• Train in desired field
• Gain valuable work experience
• Interact with employees through integrated work setting
• Prepare to enter the workforce

How do I participate?
If you are interested in participating in OJT, please contact your VR counselor. You must be eligible for VR services and have OJT as part of your Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE). Your counselor will discuss OJT with you and answer your questions.

Life Skill Enrichment

Life Skills Institute
www.life-skills-institute.com

Sarasota Office
2700 S. Tamiami Trail
Sarasota, FL 34239
941-355-9657

Offers assessment and treatment for substance abuse, anger management, mental health evaluations and more. Life Skills is approved as a treatment provider for traffic safety institute, probation and safe children coalition.

Family Integrity Training
5017 37th St. E.
Bradenton, FL 34203
941-799-4975
www.100hour.org

•  Parenting
• Personal Integrity
• Decision Making
• Anger Management
• Relationships
• Economics
• Values Clarification-Living as a Law-Abiding Citizen
• Goal Setting and Achieving
• Problem Solving and Decision-Making
• Job Hunting/Pre-Employment Skills
• Keeping a Job

Women’s Respite Program through Abundant Life Church (REAL)

Abundant Life Church
6461 Proctor Rd.
Sarasota, FL 34241
941-677-2525
Email: REALWomenalc@gmail.com

To apply:
•    Go to alcsrq.com and follow ministry tab to REAL Women. Complete and submit application.
•    Stop by Thursdays 9 – 1 or 3 – 7 to start your application process.

Program offerings:
•    Scheduled complimentary childcare for relief from the burdens of everyday life for mothers and caregivers.
•    A meal will be provided for children, light snacks will be served for women.
•    Complimentary women’s boutique offering an array of seasonal clothing, children’s necessities, personal hygiene, cleaning products and more
•    Rotating monthly services including haircuts, mini massages, car care and more.

Women can utilize their free time to relax in the hospitality room, or leave the church campus.

 Local Pregnancy Resource Centers

Manatee County

Care Net Manasota Pregnancy Center
5111 26th St. W.
Bradenton, FL 34207
941-751-1966
www.carenetmanasota.com

Sarasota County

Sarasota Medical Pregnancy Center (Care Net)
1762 Hawthorne St., Ste. 5
Sarasota, FL 34239
941-330-2273
www.sarasotapregnancy.com

Coordinated Childcare

Early Learning Coalition of Sarasota County
1750 17th St., Building L
Sarasota, FL 34234
941-954-4830
Child Care Resource & Referral Services
http://earlylearningcoalitionsarasota.org

Child Care Connection
2886-C Ringling Blvd.
Sarasota, FL 34237
Phone: 941-556-1600

Sarasota Office Hours:
Mon. 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., Tues. 7:30 a.m. – 7:00 p.m., Wed. 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., Thurs. 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., Fri. 7:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Connecting families to resources for quality early childhood education. Offering:

• Individualized referrals for quality child care based on a parent’s specific requirements such as location, type of program, hours, or accreditation.
• Brochures and information covering many areas of child development and behavior
• Assistance in locating services for children with special needs
• Financial Assistance to Help Eligible Parents Pay for Child Care through the Coalition’s Child Care Connection program:
• Parents who are working or attending an approved education or training program for at least 20 hours per week.
• Parents whose annual income and family size meets eligibility criteria.
• Parents interested in applying can call 941-556-1600 ext. 106.

Early Learning Coalition of Manatee County, Inc.
600 8th Ave. W., Ste. 100
Palmetto, FL 34221
941-757-2900
Email: familyservices@elc-manatee.org
www.elc-manatee.org

Bradenton Office Hours: Mon. – Thurs. 7 a.m. – 6 p.m., Friday by appointment only.

For a referral please visit the website or call 941-757-2900.

 Head Start/Early Head Start

Early Head Start serves children birth to three years old, pregnant women and their families utilizing the same comprehensive approach as Head Start. Head Start serves children who will be 3 or 4 years old before September 1st. The free pre-school program is committed to providing young children with a language-rich, stimulating environment with the idea that the earliest intervention reaps the biggest rewards.
Phone: 941-750-6667, ext. 7013

Head Start/Early Head Start Services may be right for you if you:
•    Are income eligible (at or below poverty level)
•    Are homeless
•    Are receiving public assistance (SSI or TANF benefits)
•    Have a child who has been diagnosed with a disability affecting the child’s ability to learn

For Head Start: you must have a child who will be 3 or 4 years old before September 1st

For Early Head Start: you must have a child under three years old.

Head Start/Early Head Start services are provided at no cost to you.

Apply at:

Children First
1723 N. Orange Ave.
Sarasota, Florida 34234
Phone: 941-953-3877
Email: info@childrenfirst.net
www.childrenfirst.net

or:

Manatee Community Action Agency
6428 Parkland Dr.
Sarasota, FL 34243
941-746-7374

 HIPPY
(Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters)

302 Manatee Ave. E., Suite 322
Bradenton, FL 34208

Parent involvement, school readiness program that helps parents prepare their 3, 4, and 5 year olds for success in school and beyond.

HIPPY helps parents empower themselves as their children’s first teacher by giving them the tools, skills and confidence they need to work with their children in the home.

Eligibility Requirements:
•    Parent or guardian of a 3 or 4 year old child
•    Reside in Manatee County

And one of the following:
•    Recipient of Medicaid or Medicaid eligible
•    Recipient of TANF or TANF eligible
•    Eligibility can also be determined by household size and income

For more information, contact Toni Bloise at 941-827-0188, ext, 7740

 Gulf Central Early Steps Program
Health Planning Council of SWFL (HPCSWF)

 4630 17th St.
Sarasota, FL 34239
941-487-5400 or 866-510-5594
www.hpcswf.com/early-steps

HPCSWF runs the Early Steps/Early Intervention Program serving children ages 0-3 with developmental delays and their families in Charlotte, DeSoto, Manatee, Highlands, Hardee and Sarasota counties.
The Florida Early Intervention System, through collaborative community partnerships and investments, ensures that infants and toddlers with special needs and their families achieve their full potential in the context of everyday relationships, activities and places.

Legal Services

Law Offices of Hernandez & Smith, P.A.
Yahima Hernandez
Abogado/Attorney at Law
6318 U.S. Hughway 301 South
Riverview, FL 33578
Phone: 813-448-6573
Email: yahima@hernandezsmithlaw.com
www.hernandezsmithlaw.com

• Family Law
• Business Litigation and Construction
• Immigration and Citizenship
• Personal Injury
• Other

Additional Resources Available

Florida RX Card – Immediate Savings on Prescription Drugs – Ask us about this if you are interested!!

www.FloridaRXCard.com
Visit www.FloridaRXCard.com to print your free discount prescription card and locate participating pharmacies. If you are unable to access the website, you can also visit any CVS pharmacy in Florida to have your prescription processed through the program. Every resident of Florida is eligible to receive a free prescription discount drug card. Present your Select RX card to your pharmacist with your prescription. Savings vary, with savings on some medications as high as 75%.

Publix Baby Club
www.publix.com/babyclub

Sign up to receive coupons and newsletters up until your child is 24 months of age.

Similac StrongMoms
www.strongmoms.com

Sign up for a free membership and receive:

• Up to $329† in membership benefits and special Gold Rewards
• Expert nutrition guidance and support from pregnancy through baby’s first year
• Enroll today to receive your first Gold Reward — $20 worth of premium Shutterfly® birth announcements

You can receive Similac coupons and free samples of formula.

Forty Carrots Family Center
1500 S. Tuttle Ave.
Sarasota, FL 34239
941-365-7716
www.fortycarrots.org

A non-profit charitable organization dedicated to strengthening families through educational programs for parents and children. Join other families navigating the newborn phase in a supportive, fun, informative class with specially trained parenting educators. Explore topics that are relevant to you and your family as you begin the journey of raising a healthy and happy child. Information, skills and support is available for parents and children during the first five years of life.

The Cord Blood Center
888-780-2885
www.cordbloodbanking.com
Email: info@cordbloodbanking.com

Your child’s umbilical cord cells are powerful, versatile and full of life-saving potential. These young cells haven’t been exposed to disease – meaning they can replace older, damaged cells and boost recovery time. Stored cord blood protects your family from dangerous conditions, including immune disorders, blood defects and several forms of cancer.

At Cordbloodbanking.com, the mission is to provide you and your family with relevant information on cord blood, banking options and emerging research, so you can make the best decision possible for your family. The organization promotes awareness for current and future stem cell treatments, and they are committed to being the most comprehensive and up-to-date resource available for mothers and families considering cord blood banking.

www.optionline.org
A nationwide contact center helping you locate pregnancy centers in your area.

www.pregnancy911.com
Abortion and unplanned pregnancy help.

www.standupgirl.com
Get answers to your pregnancy questions. Share your story and learn about girls just like you who are also going through an unplanned pregnancy.

www.babycenter.com
This website will walk you through your pregnancy and through your baby’s childhood. Learn what to expect and when. The websites online tools include pregnancy calendars, milestones, symptoms, product recalls, blogs and videos, great deals and baby product suggestions.

www.kindcampaign.com
An internationally recognized movement, documentary and school program based upon the powerful belief in KINDness, that brings awareness and healing to the negative and lasting effects of girl-against-girl “crime.” Watch the trailer on their documentary on the website. It follows two girls and their mothers who travel across America to interview females about the “mean girl” phenomenon.

www.kidshealth.org
This website includes information for parents, teens and kids. It offers knowledge, advice and comfort to new parents. A section is also includes regarding pregnancy and newborn care. This is an excellent resource for pregnant women, new parents and their families. Available in English and Spanish.

www.consumerdangers.com/products
Across the world, death and serious injuries occur from Consumer Products all too often. This site is dedicated to helping raise awareness of these products in order to decrease the amount of these tragedies by keeping the public informed about consumer dangers and safety issues associated with numerous products that can cause the public serious harm. The website is continuously updated with breaking news from Government agencies, Watchdog Groups, and concerned citizens regarding product recalls and drug (medication) safety.

Maternity Grants for Pregnant Women

Women Infants and Children
WIC
Food & Nutrition Services
3101 Park Center Drive
Alexandria, VA 22302
877-696-6775
800-342-3556
www.fns.usda.gov/wic/women-infants-and-children-wic

The national Women Infants and Children Program is a federally funded supplemental nutrition program designed for pregnant women, infants and children up to the age of 5. In addition to assistance with purchasing nutritious foods, the WIC program issues grants to pregnant women and mothers of newborns for the purpose of purchasing a car seat. In order to receive grant funding for a new car seat, most local offices require applicants attend a 60 to 90 minute class on car safety and the importance of securing a car seat properly. Applicants must apply directly through their local WIC office.

HUD Housing Grants
Department of Housing and Urban Development
451 7th Street S.W.
Washington, DC 20410
202-708-1112
hud.gov

The Department of Housing and Urban Development is a federally funded organization that works to provide safe, affordable housing to low-income Americans on individual state levels. Pregnant women who meet income limit qualifications may benefit from one of the many grant programs offered through HUD. The program offers grants in the form of rent vouchers to assist with rent payments, which can be especially helpful when unable to work. Interested parties will need to apply for grant funding directly through their local HUD office and be prepared to show proof of income and identification.

 Local Food Pantries

All Faiths Food Bank
8171 Blaikie Ct.
Sarasota, FL 34240
941-379-6333
www.allfaithsfoodbank.org

Central Church of Christ
6221 Proctor Rd.
Sarasota, FL 34342
941-924-0095
www.centralsarasota.org

Church of the Palms
3224 Bee Ridge Rd.
Sarasota, FL 34239
941-924-1323
www.churchofthepalms.org

First Church of the Nazarene
3375 Fruitville Rd.
Sarasota, FL 34237
941-365-2654

Harvest Tabernacle
209 N. Lime Ave.
Sarasota, FL 34237
941-953-3559
www.harvesttab.com

St. Paul Lutheran Church
2256 Bahia Vista St.
Sarasota, FL 34239
941-955-6479
www.stpaulsarasota.org

True Vine Baptist Church
1947 31st St.
Sarasota, FL 34234
941-355-4417

Salvation Army of Sarasota
1400 10th St.
Sarasota, FL 34236
941-954-4673
www.uss.salvationarmy.org

Food Bank of Manatee County
811 23rd Ave. E.
Bradenton, FL 34208
941-747-4655
www.foodbankofmanatee.org

Hope Family Services
P.O. Box 1624
Bradenton, FL 34206
941-747-8499

Our Daily Bread of Bradenton
710 18th Ave. W.
Bradenton, FL 34205
941-745-2992
www.ourdailybreadofbradenton.org

Manatee Community Action Agency
6428 Parkland Dr.
Sarasota, FL 34243
941-827-2887
www.manateecaa.org

Women’s Resource Center

The Women’s Resource Center of Sarasota County
340 S. Tuttle Avenue
Sarasota, FL 34237
Phone: 941-366-1700

The Women’s Resource Center of Manatee County
1926 Manatee Ave. W.
Bradenton, FL 34205
Phone: 941-747-6797

Email: info@mywrc.org
Website: www.mywrc.org

The Women’s Resource Center is a 501 ( c ) ( 3 ) not-for-profit agency that has provided women (and men) with life skills training, career planning and educational scholarships in Sarasota and Manatee County for over 35 years. They assist thousands of women in creating independent lifestyles by identifying problems, locating appropriate resources and creating a plan to aid in solving their problems. Visit the website for a list of programs and classes that are offered.

DCF Member Update (as of 09/01/2012)

 Dear Members:

We apologize for the short notice, but only found out about this policy within the last few hours.  As of tomorrow (9/01/12), if the Department of Children and Families receives returned correspondence for lack of correct address, DCF will suspend Medicaid and SNAP (Food Stamps) benefits until the family provides a correct address in the ACCESS system.  A copy of the new policy can be found at the end of this e-mail.

The Agency for Health Care Administration was unaware of this change in policy until we contacted them once we became aware.  AHCA has contacted DCF and confirmed that this will be the new policy.  DCF has agreed to work with AHCA for the first couple of months of implementation to determine how many recipients are affected and how to mitigate disruption.  They have also offered to broker a joint meeting between FAHP, DCF and AHCA to discuss Medicaid health plan enrollees.

Our obvious concern is the risk of substantial disenrollment and reenrollment of plan members.  At this time neither DCF or AHCA can estimate how many people this may affect.  We will let you know more information as it becomes available.

Here is the DCF policy as stated:
Starting September 1, 2012 Medicaid enrolled beneficiaries may experience a break in their Medicaid and SNAP (food stamps) benefits if the address in the ACCESS system is not up to date.
What is the process and policy?
DCF ACCESS determines eligibility for Medicaid and SNAP benefits.  Sometimes ACCESS mails information to enrollees.  DCF is centralizing its mailing function. Starting September 1, 2012, if ACCESS gets mail returned because the address is incorrect, the program will suspend Medicaid and SNAP benefits until the family updates the address in the ACCESS system.  Once the family updates their address, benefits will be reinstated and made retroactive to the date of the suspension.
How can families prevent an interruption in benefits?
1.    Families can update their address at any time by going to their ACCESS account on line.
http://www.myflorida.com/accessflorida
There is a link in light blue that the family can use to report a change.  The family will need their ACCESS account number and password for this.
If a family does not have a computer, they can visit an ACCESS community partner to use a computer.  Find the list of ACCESS community partners here
http://www.dcf.state.fl.us/access/CPSLookup/search.aspx
Or the family can visit an ACCESS service center, found here
http://www.myflfamilies.com/service-programs/access-florida-food-medical-assistance-cash/locate-service-center-your-area
2.      The family can call 1-866-762-2237 to update the address, but families should expect long hold times using this approach.
3.      The family can add an email address to their account (using the same methods above).  Most communication from ACCESS will then be sent by email.  More electronic communication means less snail mail and less chance that the mail will be returned.
How can I help my Medicaid families ensure continuous benefits?
When you talk with families of  Medicaid enrolled children, ask them to verify their address.  If the address is different then what you have on record, remind them to update their address through ACCESS as quickly as possible.  Help them understand how important it is to have a correct address and help them understand how they can get their address corrected.
Verifying address and phone numbers at each encounter is generally standard business practice in health care settings, but in this case, we need to take the extra step to ensure that the information is correct, not just in the CMS system, but in the ACCESS (and Title XXI systems) as well.
How is DCF ACCESS working with CMS on this issue?
DCF has promised us that, starting September 1, 2012, they will look at the newly returned mail and analyze it to see who is affected and if the return mail represents an address that was already changed (sometimes it takes a long time for mail to be returned).  They will share this information with us and determine the extent to which our enrolled children are effected and if there are other strategies we can take to prevent any disruption in benefits.

Online Classes