Sandestin Foundation for Kids has recently partnered with the local chapter of Catholic Charities to do some amazing work in our surrounding areas.  The foundation was made aware of some critical needs of families across the panhandle of Florida.  Catholic Charities has food banks set up in the major cities such as Pensacola, Fort Walton Beach, Tallahassee, etc., but it is extremely difficult, if not impossible, for people in need in rural areas to make it to the food bank to get assistance.  Sandestin Golf and Beach resort donated a van which has been affectionately named, “The Caring Coach.”  In partnership with the Rotary Club and The Knights of Columbus, this van is loaded up every Tuesday and driven to a rural community such as Baker, Freeport, Bruce, DeFuniak and Ebro in order to reach the neediest families in our community.  The van not only brings food, but also formula, diapers, clothing, high chairs, and baby cribs.  People can come to the van and get supplies as well as talk to a counselor, if needed.  They are also arranging for a dentist and doctor to meet with people who have basic medical needs.

It is eye-opening to see the amount of people that are in need of these daily essential items right here in our own community.  Sandestin Foundation for Kids has donated 100’s of pounds of fresh meat, as well as diapers and formula for the Caring Coach to take to these families.  The organizers of this group are working on state grants from companies such as Walmart and Winn Dixie to help bring fresh fruits and vegetables in the van as well.  We are very excited about this program and the positive influence it will have right here in our own community!

HOW TO HELP:  The Caring Coach is in particular need of clothing.  While we definitely need children’s clothing, we also need work clothes for parents to wear to potential job interviews.  Every donation will go directly to the families that have been approved to participate in the program without being filtered through thrift stores and will be given at no cost to the families.  Please drop off any donations at the Sandestin Welcome Center at 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy W., Destin, FL  32550 to the attention of Kristin Cloud.