STREAM is a faith-based organization comprised of diverse, interdenominational faith communities in Manatee County. They follow the biblical mandate of Micah 6:8 to “do justice,” and the words of Jesus in Matthew 23:23. We have won victories for justice in the passage of the Adult Pre-Arrest Diversion Program . It gives adults who have been arrested for non-violent misdemeanor offenses a second chance, instead of being branded for life with a criminal record, after they enroll in the program which does hold them accountable for their actions. We have also worked with our County Commissioners to assure that 1,000 affordable housing units are built in Manatee County.

S.T.R.E.A.M. (Stronger Together Reaching Equality Across Manatee) is a nonpartisan, grassroots organizing group uniting faith communities to answer the call to seek justice and solve critical community problems in Manatee County. The name STREAM reflects the vision of a community where justice flows like a never-failing stream (Amos 5:24). They believe “loving our neighbor” means standing up and acting to provide fairness and justice for all. Their unique approach is a focus on direct action to address the root causes of problems. They do not provide charitable services (often a temporary fix). STREAM works to create long-term solutions by changing problematic policies and systems that are significant drivers of poverty and injustice. Current priority issues are affordable housing and criminal justice reform. STREAM currently has 15 member congregations with diverse religious, socioeconomic, racial, and ethnic backgrounds and who come from all parts of Manatee County. They are actively seeking new member congregations (and individual members).

"We believe in the power of organized people… to build stronger communities where justice and fairness are a reality for everyone."