Community Initiatives
Mandatory Reporter Training
In partnership with the Department of Children and Families and led by the Florida Abuse Hotline, the Mandatory Reporter training reviews the identification of risk factors for child abuse, what occurs once a call has been made to the hotline and how cases are handled through the Child Protection Investigation Department.
To learn more about mandated reporting and how to identify and report abuse please click here
In search of support?
If you witness or suspect abuse, please contact the Abuse Hotline
The Florida Abuse Hotline accepts reports 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, of known or suspected child abuse, neglect or abandonment.
*If you ever suspect a minor is in immediate danger, contact 911*
Mini Libraries
Mary Lee’s House is so excited to announce that we are implementing mini libraries all throughout Hillsborough County! These libraries will contain children’s books, important resource pamphlets, and self-help material for children and parents. These resources will be in Spanish and English, free for the community to take and utilize.
We are in need of materials to keep these libraries filled. If you have any children’s books, teenager books, and self-help books that you would like to donate, please feel free to email us at info@maryleeshouse.org or call us at 813-250-6650.
Slices of Mary Lee’s House
The “Slices of Mary Lee’s House” consists of trauma informed design spaces that include soothing colors, a calming mural of a tree and a comfort corner for children. The very first slice is complete, and is located in the dependency waiting room of George E. Edgecomb 13th Judicial Courthouse. The goal of trauma informed design is to create spaces that are welcoming while demonstrating a safe environment.
We have also installed a “Doggie Delivery” mailbox so that the children waiting in the space can write to the courthouse dog, Tibet. These letters will go to Voices for Children and will be used to support the Courthouse dog program.
Another critical component of this project is the Mary Lee’s House mini library. This library contains children’s books as well as helpful resources for parents and caregivers.
Trauma Informed Care
Trauma-informed care and design focuses on creating environments and providing services that acknowledges and addresses the existing impact of traumatic experiences of an individual. It involves understanding that trauma can affect a child's behavior, emotions, and development.
The approach emphasizes safety, trust, and empowerment, aiming to avoid re-traumatization. This is applied at Mary Lee’s House through the many artistic murals, nature themed artwork and sculptural pieces, soothing water fountains, and appropriate lighting and colors.
Without trauma-informed care and design, children who have experienced trauma may face increased risk of re-traumatization and further emotional and behavioral challenges. Creating safe and healing environments is essential for helping children heal, build resilience, and thrive.
Our Resource Closets
Mary Lee’s House plays a vital role in supporting and providing resources to the agencies within the building. Children receiving services are welcomed to our closets as a reward after receiving services or when they are in urgent need. Our toy closet allows children to select a toy or gift of their choice, with many leaving saying, “This is the best!!” Additionally, our clothing closet offers a range of options, from newborn to adult sizes, for those in need during services.
