Zero in ’30: Ending Childhood Homelessness in Winter Haven

By Tabitha Keith, Director of Programs, Heart for Winter Haven

At Heart for Winter Haven, we believe no child should ever have to wonder where they will sleep at night. Yet too many of our kids in this city know that reality all too well. That is why we have launched Zero in ’30, our vision to end childhood homelessness in Winter Haven by 2030.

Katie’s Story

Katie (name changed for safety), a single mother of two, came to us after fleeing domestic violence. For months, she and her children moved between relatives’ homes, never knowing what tomorrow would hold.
When she enrolled in Jobs for Life and Faith & Finances, Katie gained new skills, encouragement, and tools for financial stability. She also completed our Match Savings program, earning an extra $300 for keeping her savings above $300 for 90 days. These steps gave her a foundation of hope and confidence.
Soon after, Katie was able to move into one of our housing units. With safe and stable housing in place, she landed a better-paying job and began building a future for her family.
In Katie’s own words: “This program gave me more than a home, it gave me hope.”

Why Zero in ’30 Matters

Katie’s story is not unique. Last school year, 548 students in Winter Haven schools were identified as homeless. That number is heartbreaking, but it is fewer than the year before, and it shows that progress is possible when a community works together.
Since 2020, Heart for Winter Haven has helped 1,037 families escape or avoid homelessness. We have also committed to securing 50 units of affordable housing by 2030. Six are already in place, and we are just getting started.

How We’re Getting There

Zero in ’30 rests on three big commitments:
● Coordinated Entry & Partnerships: Working with the Homeless Coalition of Polk County so families can access multiple supports through one unified system.
● Holistic Programs: Courses like Jobs for Life and Faith & Finances that tackle the root causes of poverty, offering job readiness, mentorship, financial literacy, and matched savings.
● Economic Mobility: Tools like The ALICE Project, which provides up to $2,500 for business coaching or $1,500 for certifications to working families who are trying to stay afloat.

Join Us

We know ending childhood homelessness is a big goal, but it is not impossible. Cities like Rockford, IL and Abilene, TX have already done it. Together, we can too.
Whether you are a landlord with space to rent, a business owner with jobs to offer, a church ready to rally volunteers, or a neighbor with time to walk alongside families, you are part of this vision.
Every child in Winter Haven deserves more than survival. They deserve safety, stability, and the chance to thrive. Let us be the city that did not look away, but came together to do something about it.
Learn more or get involved in Zero in ’30 at heart4wh.org.