United Way Emerald Coast has released their second phase of grant money totaling $40,000 to seven local charities in Okaloosa and Walton Counties from their COVID19 Relief fund.

United Way works with hundreds of partners to fight for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in Okaloosa and Walton counties. Their COVID relief grants provide support to charities who provide housing assistance, utility assistance, healthcare and food security to those impacted by COVID19.

“We launched the COVID-19 Relief Fund to support our most vulnerable neighbors, those who might suffer devastating economic and health impacts because of the virus,” said Kelly Jasen, CEO United Way Emerald Coast.  “We are proud to have strong partnerships with local businesses and individuals who answered the call for help.  Because of their generosity, and partnerships with other non-profits across Okaloosa and Walton counties, we’re able to quickly get these critical funds to the individuals and families who need them most.”

The seven local charities selected to receive funds include Boys and Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast, Bridgeway Center, Catholic Charities of Northwest Florida, Eleanor J. Johnson Youth Center, Feeding the Gulf Coast, Mental Health Association, and The Salvation Army. The charities were required to submit a COVID19 relief grant application in order to be considered for funds. Each charity will also be required to submit results, showcasing how the funds were able to directly impact the families and individuals their organizations support in the community.

“We are extremely thankful for our partnership with the United Way Emerald Coast, we have been able to recontinue serving several families in Okaloosa and Walton Counties because of the United Way’s COVID relief funding,” said Shervin Rassa, CEO of Boys and Girls Clubs.  “As our communities slowly and safely reopen, we are proud to have the support of our local United Way in aiding in our transitions.”

The COVID19 Relief Fund was made possible by several local businesses. Gulf Power Foundation, Florida Blue, Publix Super Markets, Eglin Federal Credit Union, Wind Creek, Beast Code, Truist Foundation, Beach Community Bank, Wells Fargo, Whole Foods and 39 individual donors.

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