Turning Points to Open School-Based Family Support Office in Palmetto
Families in Palmetto will soon have greater access to stability services designed to prevent homelessness and keep children focused on learning. On January 6, 2026, Turning Points will open its first satellite office at the Lincoln Memorial Middle School Family Welcome Center.
The new office will serve families connected to Lincoln Memorial Middle School and Palmetto Elementary, as well as Project Heart referrals and School District of Manatee County employees. Additional school locations are expected to be added in the future.
The initiative, known as Connected Manatee, provides appointment-based services to help families before a crisis escalates. By working directly with schools, the program ensures children remain in stable housing and can succeed academically without the disruption of homelessness. Teachers and staff benefit from a single referral system, allowing them to quickly connect families to resources rather than manage crises themselves.
Available services will include resource navigation, benefits enrollment for programs such as SNAP, Medicaid, and TANF, rental and utility assistance, emergency supplies including food and school items, and transportation support for verified appointments. All services will be offered by appointment only.
By offering early intervention, Connected Manatee aims to preserve housing stability, reduce trauma for children, and support long-term family success while allowing schools to focus on education.