At Bank of Central Florida, we take pride in supporting local organizations that have a positive and lasting impact on our communities. One such organization is Heartland for Children, a vital community-based care agency serving Polk, Highlands and Hardee Counties. Through our partnership, we have provided the financial tools and personalized support Heartland for Children needs to carry out their mission of helping foster children and families, making a tangible difference in the lives of thousands.

Heartland for Children: A Pillar of Support in Foster Care

Heartland for Children manages the foster care system for over 1,850 children across three counties, ensuring that children who have been removed from their homes due to abuse, neglect, or abandonment receive the care they need. From case management to adoptions, independent living, and service development, Heartland for Children plays an essential role in safeguarding these children’s futures.

However, this work cannot be done alone. The organization depends on the support of foster parents, volunteers, and local businesses to provide care for these vulnerable children. The COVID-19 pandemic created significant challenges, including a shortage of foster families. Today, there’s an urgent need for more families willing to open their hearts and homes, with a current gap of about 80 foster families needed to meet community demand.

For those considering fostering, Coady Cheek, Relationship Manager at Bank of Central Florida, wisely notes, “There will rarely be the ‘perfect time.’ Jump right in and know you will be encouraged. The support and training we received from Heartland for Children and their staff was extremely valuable. Fostering and understanding the importance of providing care to those in need will have everlasting impacts. All children deserve the opportunity to be loved and cared for!” His engagement goes beyond a professional level; he has actively worked with Heartland for Children to foster a deeper understanding of the needs of children in the system.

Financial Tools that Empower Community Care

Bank of Central Florida is proud to be a partner in Heartland for Children’s efforts. As a community bank, we understand the importance of providing not only financial services but also personalized support that meets the unique needs of organizations like Heartland for Children. Through this collaboration, we’ve offered them the financial tools they need to succeed in their mission.

Our partnership includes managing their development account, where donations for key events such as their annual Rudolph Roundup Toy Drive are collected and processed. Heartland for Children’s Rudolph Roundup Toy Drive is one of their most important initiatives, providing holiday gifts for over 1,500 foster children each year. As the season approaches, we ensure that their banking needs are met, whether it’s through our secure online banking services, debit cards for purchasing gifts, or increasing purchase limits to accommodate large-scale shopping efforts.

The Rudolph Roundup Toy Drive is a monumental task, and our team at Bank of Central Florida, including Coady, is always ready to step in when needed. Whether it’s helping to troubleshoot technical issues with their check scanner, ensuring smooth transactions during the holiday shopping season, or offering prompt support whenever it’s required, we’re committed to making their operations as seamless as possible.

A Personalized Banking Experience

At Bank of Central Florida, we believe that fostering strong relationships with our clients means going beyond the traditional banking experience. Our partnership with Heartland for Children is a testament to the power of personalized service. When they  needed support during the pandemic to secure a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan, our team moved quickly to guide them through the process, helping secure essential funding to keep their programs running.

Additionally, we provide quick responses to ensure Heartland for Children can focus on what matters most—caring for children and families. Whether it’s resolving day-to-day banking issues or increasing transaction limits during high-demand periods like the holiday season, our team is always ready to lend a hand.

Looking Ahead to the 2024 Rudolph Roundup Toy Drive

As we move into the 2024 holiday season, Heartland for Children is gearing up for another successful Rudolph Roundup Toy Drive, bringing joy to hundreds of foster children and ensuring they have a bright and happy holiday. Bank of Central Florida is proud to continue supporting this initiative by providing the financial tools and resources needed to make it a success.

At Bank of Central Florida, we are more than just a bank—we are a community partner. Our relationship with Heartland for Children exemplifies how personalized service and financial support can empower organizations to make a real difference. As we continue this partnership, we are committed to supporting Heartland for Children’s mission to improving safety, permanency and well-being for all children in Polk, Highlands and Hardee Counties.

This holiday season, we invite you to join us in making the 2024 Rudolph Roundup Toy Drive a success. Together, we can spread hope and joy to foster children, ensuring they feel the warmth and love of a caring community. Visit heartlandforchildren.org/rudolph or contact rudolph@heartlandforchildren.org to learn more and become a Rudolph Champion this year!