Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast (BGCEC) has been awarded a $30,000 grant for the 2026-27 grant year through a partnership between United Way Emerald Coast (UWEC) and Choctawhatchee Electric Cooperative (CHELCO). The funding will be directed toward membership scholarships for families in the ALICE demographic — Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed — who earn too much to qualify for traditional assistance programs yet too little to comfortably afford quality child care.
As child care costs across the Emerald Coast continue to rise, many working families find themselves caught in a financial gap — ineligible for federal assistance but still unable to absorb the full expense of after-school and youth programming. This grant directly addresses that gap, ensuring that income should never be a barrier to a safe, nurturing environment for a child.
“Every child deserves a safe place to belong, learn, and thrive, and no family should have to choose between paying the bills and giving their child that opportunity. We serve more than 5,000 young people across the Emerald Coast, and this investment from United Way Emerald Coast and CHELCO means we can reach even more of the hardworking families who need us most. This grant is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when organizations come together around kids,” said Shervin Rassa, CEO, Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast.
The scholarship funding will cover or offset membership fees for qualifying ALICE households at the Destin, South Walton, and Riverside Club locations, enabling children to participate in BGCEC’s full range of programs — including academic support, health and wellness activities, leadership development, and the arts. Families seeking scholarship opportunities at other BGCEC sites are encouraged to contact the organization directly.
“At United Way Emerald Coast, we know that lasting change happens through strong partnerships. We’re proud to stand beside Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast as they help children and families thrive. Together, we’re creating opportunities for ALICE families, as this grant ensures more children can learn, grow, and reach their full potential,” said Kelly Jasen, President/CEO, United Way Emerald Coast.
"CHELCO is proud to support initiatives that strengthen our communities and expand opportunities for local families. While we are grateful to be part of this giving, we owe full credit to our member, Mrs. Muriel Drebing, whose generous and charitable spirit makes this impact possible. Her commitment to giving aligns closely with CHELCO's cooperative principles and our deep concern for community, and we are proud to serve as a conduit for the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast and the many deserving 2026–27 partner charities doing important work across our region," said Emily Cowan, Senior Vice President of Member Services and External Affairs, CHELCO.
Families interested in learning more about membership scholarship opportunities at Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast are encouraged to visit emeraldcoastbgc.org or call 850-862-1616.
