Tampa, Fla. – Children’s Network of Hillsborough County (CNHC) joined the U.S. Marshals Service and an array of federal, state, and local partners on a special task force to bring home missing or endangered Florida children.

The initiative, named Operation Home for the Holidays, successfully recovered or located more than 120 at-risk Florida children in a two-week period. Fifty-seven children from the Tampa Bay area were recovered, with ages ranging from 2 to 17 years old. Seven of the recovered Tampa children are in the foster care system, with 50 coming from the community.

“As a mom and a leader, I could not be prouder of the collaboration from so many dedicated partners working to protect our children,” said Terri Balliet, CEO of Children’s Network of Hillsborough County. “Every family deserves to feel safe, whole, and hopeful this holiday season.”

CNHC played a vital role in rescuing the children, with the operation focused on providing essential services to the recovered youth. Months of preparation went into the initiative, with considerable effort dedicated to ensuring the children’s welfare. The multi-disciplinary task force provided services including medical care, youth advocacy, juvenile justice coordination, foster care, and child placement.

“The recovery of these children represents a vital first step on their road to healing,” Balliet added. “Together with the partners in our system of care, we are working to ensure that every youth receives the services they need to thrive.”