

In the nearly 30 years since the founding of the Florida Keys Healthy Start Coalition, its grown from a small grassroots non-profit agency to a thriving organization, providing assistance to over 75% of pregnant women in the Keys and to 700 babies born here each year. We continue to expand our programs to meet the needs of our growing families and we intend to continue to provide solutions and opportunities to help families be healthy, productive and to thrive.
We are seeking community support and feedback on the Cudjoe Key Therapeutic & Education Center! The Center would be on a 4-acre lot in Cudjoe Key where there is currently there is an open-air barn, small paddock, and a small two bedroom/one bath home. Minor renovations would allow us to roll out initial therapeutic programming, with a special emphasis on equine, art, aqua, and canine therapy.
Our goal is to meet the social, emotional, and educational needs of children and families to prevent abuse, neglect, educational hardship, and developmental delays, as well as help heal those who have experienced trauma.

Who might this project serve?
-
All families seeking support,
-
Veterans,
-
Differently-abled adults and children,
-
At-risk, LGBTQIA+ and marginalized youth,
-
Small groups for daytime retreats,
-
Students in the school district, and
-
Any person benefitting from therapeutic resources.
When will this be available to us?
As of July 2021, we are in Phase 1 of the developmental timeline: Gather community feedback and pledges to donate, secure property and develop plans. Our goal is to open in 2022-2023.
Want to know more?
The full summary of the project plans is available to the public here. We welcome feedback, one-on-one discussions, and your involvement. Land Use Analysis available here.
How can I get involved?
There is already a buzz of excitement starting in the community. If you believe in the value of the Cudjoe Key Therapeutic & Education Center and want to pledge your support this project, please find our pledge form here. Still have questions? Let’s chat! Our CEO, Arianna Nesbitt is happy to further discuss this project with you. You can reach out at ceo@keyshealthystart.org or at her direct line at 305-293-1978.