Mending the Gap - Heartland Rural Health Network will implement a comprehensive fatherhood initiative serving adult fathers aged 18+ across DeSoto, Highlands, Hardee, and Polk counties in Central Florida. The project will deliver over 24 hours of curriculum-based workshops, including at least 8 hours of healthy marriage and relationship education, integrated with employment skills development. A dedicated team will provide case management and participant tracking through established offices in multiple counties. The program will serve 425 fathers over the five-year project period, leveraging partnerships with workforce boards, faith-based institutions, and domestic violence experts to strengthen family resilience and economic opportunity.
