Frances Walker Halfway House (FWHH)

The Frances Walker Halfway House Program provides comprehensive gender specific programming for female adolescents, ages 13 to 18 years old.  The program addresses the substance abuse, mental health, academic, vocational, social, medical and transitional needs of each youth.  There is an on-site school that offers youth the opportunity to earn high school credits; including credit recovery, General Education Diploma or a High School Diploma.  Youth who have completed a high school diploma prior to commitment may have the opportunity to complete on-line college courses.  The on-site school also offers the "Florida Ready to Work Certificates," which is an opportunity for the student to exhibit competency in a specific academic area and earn a certificate to aid in gaining employment upon transition.  Youth are provided substance abuse and mental health treatment through clinical services such as individual, family and group counseling.   Youth may also have the opportunity to earn CPR certification, participate in parenting classes as needed and pre-vocational skills. The program provides a structured residential environment for youth that offers opportunities for personal growth, social development, independence and responsible behavior. Volunteers from the community provide a variety of learning experiences, such as Girl Scouting, spiritual services, guest speakers, learning to be a victim's advocate, specialized beauty services and many others.  The average length of stay is 6 to 9 months. The current capacity is 30 youth.  Youth are admitted by the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice.