Samuel’s House CEO Elmira Leto named
by Gov. Scott to Florida Women’s Hall of Fame
BY TERRY SCHMIDA
One of the Florida Keys’ most tireless advocates for the rights of women, children, and families, is being named to the Florida Women’s Hall of Fame, in recognition for her work.
Key West native Elmira Leto founded Samuel’s House 15 years ago in the Truman Avenue building once occupied by her family’s interior decorating business.
Today Leto serves as the CEO of the organization, which assists in providing shelter, employment assistance, and other services to homeless women, women with children, and intact families, in a complex of buildings located in Poinciana Plaza. They include the Mary Spottswood Women’s Center, Kathy’s Hope, and Casa de Meredith.
Taken together, the programs of Samuel’s House serve hundreds of clients each year.
Leto and two other candidates were selected to the Women’s Hall of Fame from among 10 finalists, by the Florida Commission on the Status of Women. Leto was informed of her award, via a phone call from the governor himself, on Oct. 30.
“Elmira is a wonderful role model for the community, especially among young women,” the commission wrote in a statement. “Her faith and perseverance in addressing local homeless and social issues, and her advocacy efforts on behalf of women, children and families have made such a difference in the lives of many families faced with desperate and sometimes life-threatening situations of domestic violence.”
The Florida Commission on the Status of Women is a nonpartisan board consisting of 22 appointed members, which works out of Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi’s office.
The commission “recognizes and supports women of all ages as they strive to achieve their fullest potential.” Leto was nominated for the distinction by area women Andrea Spottswood, Sandi Bazo, Sandy Higgs, and Kay Miller.
“I feel fabulous and honored and humble,” Leto said. “As a little Key West Conch girl, I’m totally shocked, and wasn’t expecting it at all.”
She added that she hoped the recognition conveyed by the award would translate into increased funding opportunities for Samuel’s House.
“I hope and pray that it will ultimately open up more chances to serve additional individuals in our wonderful and giving community,” Leto said. “We’re hoping to be able to move forward with our strategic plan objectives over the next five years, which includes a program to assist at-risk teens.”
Mark Todaro, who is currently in his fifth term as the president of the Samuel’s House board of directors, praised Leto’s selection on Monday.
“Not only did she start this organization, but she runs it with all her heart,” he said. “It’s her life, 24/7. Over the years she has helped so many women, from all walks of life. It’s great to see her recognized in this way.”
The Florida Women’s Hall of Fame is now in its 34th year, and accepts nominations for the honor from April 1 to July 15 annually.
This year’s inductees will be feted at a ceremony taking place at 5:30 p.m. Jan. 27, on the 22nd floor of the Capitol Building, in Tallahassee.
For more information on the commission, visit www.fcsw.net.

 

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