Hillsborough County Dedicates $60 Million Investment in New Brandon Family Center

The Children’s Board of Hillsborough County will dedicate a new family resource center in Brandon on Monday, November 16, following its investment of $60 million in local programs in 2025. The facility, located at 308 W. Robertson St., serves as an expanded hub for developmental screenings, parenting assistance, and community referrals.

The center is named for the Honorable Judge Katherine G. Essrig, a Tampa native who served on the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County Board of Directors for more than two decades. Essrig’s career in the judiciary spanned over 30 years, during which she advocated for stronger child welfare systems across the county.

The new location is funded by the Children’s Board and operated by Lutheran Services Florida. The organization states that the facility is designed to help children remain healthy, safe, and developmentally on track. It provides a physical space where parents and caregivers can connect with support systems within their own communities.

In 2025, the Children’s Board allocated funds to support more than 80 nonprofit organizations and 152 distinct programs. These efforts focus on ensuring children are ready for learning and supported by strong families. The Brandon center consolidates these services to reduce barriers for local residents seeking help.

The dedication ceremony on November 16 marks the official opening of the expanded facility. The center offers developmental screenings and family support services that were previously fragmented across various providers. By bringing these resources together in one location, the board aims to improve access for families in the Brandon area.

Essrig’s role in shaping these services is central to the naming of the center. Her advocacy work on the board’s directorship contributed to the development of the programs now housed in the new building. The facility operates under the existing framework of the Children’s Board’s commitment to local outreach.

The center provides opportunities for families to build connections and identify support networks. Services include referrals to community resources and assistance with developmental milestones. The facility operates to ensure that children in Hillsborough County have consistent access to health and education support.