Michael Moline
The new ombudsman for children in Florida’s foster care system is Heather Cox Rosenberg, herself a foster and adoptive mother with a history of volunteerism for children.
The Florida Department of Children and Families announced the appointment Thursday. Rosenberg will serve as go-between for the department and children under its care.
“We are excited to welcome Heather to the DCF team and start her work as the ombudsman for the children we serve to give them a direct line of communication to the agency,” Secretary Mike Carroll said.
“Heather’s previous work with foster and adoptive families gives her unique insight into the challenges these kids may face and will help inform us as we make decisions that often impact children in care.”
Rosenberg is president of the Tallahassee Area Foster and Adoptive Parent Association.
She lives in Crawfordville with her husband, Evan, and their three adopted children. Since 2009, they have fostered 16 other children.
The department is developing procedures to ensure children can confidentially communicate with the ombudsman regularly, officials said.
She’ll be available to agency staff, news reporters, and the public, as well.
