November 17, 2025, (Ft. Walton Beach/Fla.) The Okaloosa County Commission on the Status of Women (OCCSW) recently presented three grants to local non-profit organizations from their Foundation.

Freedom Life Compass, Inc. received $1500. Using a holistic approach, the organization envisions a community where individuals emerging from life-controlling situations are empowered to embark on a journey of recovery and transformation. Their mission is to break the cycle of dysfunction by providing comprehensive support and resources to individuals in need. More information about FLC can be found on their website at: https://www.freedomlifecompass.org/.

Additionally, the OCCSW was able to award two additional $500 grants. Recent OCCSW Hall of Fame winner and CEO of the Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center, Julie Porterfield sponsored a grant in memory of her mom, Rosalia. The grant was given to Fresh Start for Children and Families whose primary focus is to help families achieve long-term self-sufficiency through a tailored residential and educational program. They provide comprehensive educational, vocational, and economic housing programs designed to empower homeless families to build a better future. More information about FSCF can be found on their website at: https://freshstartfl.com/.

The third grant was awarded to Emerald Coast Victim Services is the area’s only Nurse led sexual assault program designed to reduce the health effects of violence and trauma. Their vision is to ensure every person in our area has access to a forensic nurse with the skills, resources, and training to provide trauma informed care. More information about ECVS can be found on their Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/p/Emerald-Coast-Victim-Services-Inc-100086534073655/.

Grant Committee Chair Michelle Wright and the Commission presented checks to the organizations at their monthly meeting. True to their mission, the OCCSW strives to eliminate barriers and improve the status of women and others in Okaloosa County. Grant applications are accepted each year from August 15 to October 15. More information can be found on the OCCSW website: https://occsw.com/grant-application/.