Hope Starts Here features several prominent speakers, including Governor Jeff Landry, Secretary Rebecca Harris, several members of the Louisiana Legislature, as well as faith leaders, Gene Mills, President of the Louisiana Family Foundation, Jim Daly, President of Focus on the Family, Bethany Pastor Jonathan Stockstill, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and the Christian Alliance for Orphans.
“The way we treat the most vulnerable reveals the values of our communities. When we surround Louisiana’s children with strong families and faith communities, they are able to reach their full potential,” said Governor Jeff Landry.
Faith leaders are being presented with practical steps they can take to strengthen families and protect children. These steps include connecting families and church personnel to resources and training, as well as centering permanency, including reunification, foster care, and adoption, as core values in ministries around Louisiana.
“When it comes to the four corners of home, protection, prevention, preservation, and permanency, faith communities make exceptional partners. We look forward to deepening engagement with faith communities and working together to protect children, support families, and build strong communities,” said DCFS Secretary Rebecca Harris.
DCFS continues to establish partnerships around the state to develop strong community networks that invest in child safety, resilient families, and strong communities. These partnerships help create a stronger, more nurturing future for children and families across the state.
Learn more about the Hope Starts Here event at http://dcfs.la/hsh2026.