Emerald Coast Veterans Alliance Supports Local Heroes with Generous Grants

Emerald Coast Veterans Alliance Supports Local Heroes with Generous Grants

In Pace, Florida, a unique collaboration between veterans and passionate civilians is making waves in the local community. Golf enthusiasts from the area have come together not just for the love of the game but for a noble cause — supporting military veterans through fundraising efforts. This initiative has spurred the growth of the non-profit Emerald Coast Veterans Alliance (ECVA), dedicated to raising funds for veterans’ organizations across Northwest Florida.

Fore a Good Cause

The concept is simple yet effective: play some golf and raise vital funds for veterans in need. In a heartwarming ceremony held at Stonebrook Golf Club, the ECVA awarded a whopping $12,000 in grants to three noteworthy organizations committed to serving those who have served our nation. Recipients included the Honor HER Foundation in Pensacola, which provides housing for homeless female veterans, the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4833 in Milton, and the Project Healing Waters Pensacola chapter, which helps veterans with challenges such as PTSD through the calming practice of fly fishing.

Healing Through Fly Fishing

Let’s dive deeper into what Project Healing Waters Pensacola offers. This program is all about teaching veterans the calming art of fly fishing and providing them the opportunity to connect with nature. “Water has a healing effect,” says Mick Milo, a former U.S. Navy pilot leading the initiative. He explains that for many veterans, especially those grappling with issues like PTSD, being surrounded by the tranquility of nature is transformative.

Milo emphasizes that it’s not just the fishing trips that make a difference; they also teach veterans how to tie flies, build their own fly rods, and improve their fishing technique as a form of therapeutic engagement. In February, these veterans will embark on another fishing adventure to the South Holston River in Tennessee, a getaway that isn’t exactly cheap, making the grants from ECVA crucial for their success.

Empowering Women Veterans

The Honor HER Foundation is another deserving recipient of the ECVA’s generosity. This organization specifically focuses on addressing the needs of homeless female veterans. Barbara Francis, its president and a retired U.S. Navy officer, shares the significant impact this funding will have. “This is amazing. This is life-changing for a lot of our ladies,” she exclaims.

One of the foundation’s facilities, known as the Faith House, serves as a home for female veterans seeking refuge. The house, which boasts eight bedrooms, represents a safe haven, providing women with the support they need. Francis recalls working to reconnect a resident with her long-lost family after decades apart, highlighting the profound importance of community and support for those who have worn the uniform.

Supporting Local Heroes

Meanwhile, the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4833 continues to be a cornerstone of support for veterans in Milton. With the financial boost from ECVA, the post plans to carry out much-needed repairs for veterans who are struggling due to economic hardships, especially in the wake of past hurricanes. “There are a lot of veterans who are indeed desperate and struggling,” says Sue Pike, the post’s house committee chair. The organization works tirelessly to provide services, such as building wheelchair ramps and assisting with urgent home repairs, illustrating the deep commitment to veteran welfare that permeates this community.

A Legacy of Giving

Since its inception in 2019, the ECVA has awarded more than $140,000 in grants, and their annual Veterans Day Benefit Golf Tournament continues to be a vital source of funding. This year, the tournament is set for November 11th. The passionate teamwork between veterans and civilians showcases a beautiful model of community support — proving that sometimes, *swinging a club* can make a profound difference in the lives of those who have bravely served.

In short, as the Emerald Coast Veterans Alliance continues to flourish, its ripple effect is felt widely, spreading hope, healing, and a heartfelt appreciation for the sacrifices made by U.S. military veterans.