Food For Thought, a Walton County based, non-profit organization which provides school-aged children in need with backpacks of food, announced it will extend its services into Okaloosa County, specifically Destin Elementary School, in Fall 2013 through the new partnership and financial commitment from Beachy Beach 30A and Beachy Beach Destin Real Estate.
“We have been hopeful this expansion would happen for quite some time,” said Tiffanie Shelton, founder and director of Food for Thought. “Now, the financial and hands-on support from Beachy Beach will make Okaloosa County services possible and will potentially affect hundreds of children during the upcoming school year.”
Food For Thought has already begun the implementation of their program into the county’s first recipient, Destin Elementary School, where an estimated 300 students are eligible for services. Upon conclusion of the organization’s August enrollment a firm count will be established.
“We offer enrollment into our program during the school year in August and December giving parents flexibility to commit,” said Shelton. “We then coordinate delivery of the backpacks with the school’s teachers and administration.”
Beachy Beach’s partnership will further expand the capabilities of Food For Thought providing the organization with an annual monetary donation helping with many fiscal needs. The partnership will also offer marketing and promotional services, social media and website coordination and volunteer support from Beachy Beach agents and employees. The agency’s Destin location will serve as a donation site, the first and only in Okaloosa County.
“Beachy Beach has been an avid supporter of Food For Thought since its beginning,” said Hilary Farnum, broker and owner, Beachy Beach Real Estate 30A and Destin. “Now after many fundraisers together, we are thrilled to commit long-term financial and volunteer support to Food For Thought for years to come.”
Food For Thought currently serves three Walton County Schools including Bay Elementary, Butler Elementary and Emerald Coast Middle School feeding an estimated 150 children weekly. Their services extend throughout the calendar school year and into the summer break.
“The expansion into Okaloosa County will require a great deal of supplies, volunteers and overall support for Food For Thought,” said Farnum.
For more information and to learn about becoming a volunteer, visit www.foodforthoughtfl.org.