Founded in 1927, Brookwood provides a unique, life-changing residential program for at-risk girls between the ages of 13 and 21. Brookwood typically aids 120 -130 girls per year who have suffered abuse, neglect, homelessness, or serious family dysfunction. The goal of the program is to help prepare the girls to become self-sufficient and self-supporting adults, and work toward family reunification when feasible. Girls are referred to Brookwood in three ways:

• The Florida Department of Children and Families
• Parents experiencing stressful parent-child relationships
• Crisis shelters

Brookwood’s exceptional program offers a lifeline to girls who would otherwise be prime candidates for much more costly and restrictive programs. Without Brookwood, these girls have a greater chance of dropping out of school, becoming teens mothers, experiencing substance abuse, or risk becoming victims of human trafficking. Many residents struggle with mental health issues that would only be exacerbated without the support provided through Brookwood’s 24-hour program. Privileges and responsibilities are detailed in a level-system format, teaching the teens that the two go hand-in-hand. As they demonstrate responsible behaviors, they will earn more desired freedoms.