Alternative Family Program
Alternative Family Program (AFP) is based on the therapeutic foster home concept of trained sponsors who open their homes to no more than five adults or seniors with mental illness and welcome them into their families. With over 219 beds in 71 licensed care homes covering a 36 county area, sponsors provide 24-hour client supervision, care, and support in exchange for a monthly stipend.
Contact Information
Fort Myers Area
239.450.3612
serving Collier, Charlotte, Glades, Hendry, & Lee Counties
Gainesville/Daytona Area
352.262.8551
serving Flagler, Volusia, Levy & Bradford Counties
Lakeland Area
863.944.0510
serving Polk, Highlands & Hardee Counties
Orlando Area
863.944.0510
serving Orange, Osceola and Seminole Counties
Pasco Area
727.330.4879
serving Pasco County
Sarasota Area
941.780.5933
serving DeSoto, Manatee & Sarasota Counties
South Florida Area
954.809.4758
serving Broward County
Tampa Bay Area
727.479.1800
serving Pinellas & Hillsborough Counties

A welcoming home for those with mental illness
AFP was bestowed recognition by the American Psychiatric Association for significant achievement with seriously and persistently mentally ill adults, stating that the program was “an outstanding and important model for community mental health.”
“I am very satisfied with the services I have received here. I am very relaxed and content. We are treated like family.”
“I got to practice the skills that I have learned in the Step Program. I have learned steps to be more independent. I have learned to respect my caregiver and self. ”
“I moved in on November 2, 2006 into the best home that I have had in years. At Keith’s I have my own private room with a fish tank, something I have always wanted. I feel so lucky that I found this place.”
I want to Volunteer!
Volunteers are the life-blood of Gulf Coast JFCS. We are proud of the ongoing commitment demonstrated by hundreds of volunteers each year.
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There are many ways you can be a part of making your community better by working with Gulf Coast JFCS.