Selby Foundation Grant Supports Expansion and Healing-Focused Renovation at Manatee Children’s Services
Manatee Children’s Services has received a grant from the William G. and Marie Selby Foundation to fund a third-floor remodel to expand and enhance services for children and families across Manatee County.
The investment will allow the nonprofit to redesign its space with a focus on safety, support, and healing, creating a more supportive environment for the vulnerable populations it serves. The upgraded area is expected to strengthen the organization’s ability to provide critical care, counseling, and protection services for children who have experienced abuse or trauma.
Manatee Children’s Services has been a cornerstone of child advocacy in the region for more than four decades. Founded in 1977, the organization began as a grassroots effort to address child abuse and neglect in Manatee County at a time when resources were limited and awareness was growing. Over the years, it has evolved into a comprehensive child welfare agency offering a wide range of programs, including emergency shelter services, trauma-informed counseling, prevention education, and family support initiatives.
The nonprofit operates one of the area’s primary emergency shelters for children who cannot safely remain at home, providing immediate protection and stability during times of crisis. Its programs are designed not only to respond to abuse but also to prevent it through education, outreach, and early intervention.
Leaders say the renovation, supported by the Selby Foundation, will directly improve the quality of care children receive, creating more welcoming, functional, and therapeutic spaces. The improvements are part of a broader effort to meet increasing community needs and ensure that every child who enters the facility feels secure and supported.
The William G. and Marie Selby Foundation, established as a legacy of Bill and Marie Selby, has long supported nonprofit organizations and community initiatives throughout the region. Its funding priorities focus on enhancing opportunities for individuals and strengthening the capacity of organizations that serve local communities.
With the new grant, Manatee Children’s Services continues its mission of protecting children, strengthening families, and building a safer community, while expanding its capacity to offer hope and healing to those who need it most.
