Ron DeSantis Gives Money to Churches Instead of Disney World

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis gave hundreds of thousands of dollars in grants to churches throughout the Sunshine State, directing taxpayer money toward religious organizations instead of the municipal area near Walt Disney World Resort.

DeSantis officially took over Walt Disney World Resort’s municipal operations in 2023–renaming the former Reedy Creek Improvement District to the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District. He appointed board members to oversee the area, which The Walt Disney Company had controlled since 1967.

Reedy Creek Fire Dept. truck in front EPCOT's Spaceship Earth at Disney World — Credit: Reedy Creek Fire Department

Disney saw the legal action as retaliation for former CEO Bob Chapek speaking out against the Parental Rights in Education Act (“Don’t Say Gay”) law. The Mouse sued the Republican governor, claiming a First Amendment rights violation, but a federal judge dismissed the lawsuit in January.

In the past few months, the battle has quieted. DeSantis has focused on other legislation, like banning balloon releases and cutting funds from Fringe Festivals. He diverted some funds to repair roads, including those near Walt Disney World Resort.

Funds for new DeSantis initiatives come straight from the pockets of Walt Disney World Resort guests and Disney cast members who pay property, sales, and other tourist taxes.

DeSantis superimposed in front of Cinderella Castle at Disney World. — Credit: Inside the Magic

Now, Governor DeSantis is forcing Floridians and tourists to fund church philanthropy projects. On Monday, he awarded grants to 13 churches through the “Hope Florida” initiative.

DeSantis awarded 13 church grants between $25,000 and $50,000. According to CBS News, the selected religious organizations “demonstrated extensive work in their communities especially when helping families from falling into crisis.”

“We’re enabling churches to compete to meet the needs of Floridians through CarePortal,” DeSantis said. “The government should incentivize charity and philanthropy, not supplant it. Hope Florida brings together private, nonprofit, and faith actors to serve others, and enables government to get out of the way for the good of our citizens.”

Ron DeSantis sitting in front of a flag. — Credit: Ron DeSantis

CarePortal helps connect people in need to organizations with resources, including those enrolled in Hope Florida.

Hope Florida comprises over 5,000 nonprofits, churches, and other charity organizations in the Sunshine State. Floridians needing assistance can contact the Hope Line at 850-300-HOPE.

Should Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis have awarded grants to churches? Share your thoughts with Inside the Magic in the comments.