Grant Helps Kiwanis Deliver Hope to Foster Kids

Staff Reports
May 26, 2025
9:01 am
Charities and Nonprofits, Niceville, Okaloosa County, Valparaiso

In Brief:

A $3,000 grant from NextEra Energy Foundation will help the Kiwanis Foundation of Niceville-Valparaiso expand its Bags of Hope program.
The initiative provides duffel bags with essential items to foster children across four Northwest Florida counties.
With support from volunteers and local Kiwanis clubs, the foundation plans to reach even more children this year.

A $3,000 grant from the NextEra Energy Foundation will help the Kiwanis Foundation of Niceville-Valparaiso expand its Bags of Hope program, which supports foster children across Northwest Florida with essentials and comfort items during a time of transition.

The Bags of Hope initiative supplies duffel bags filled with toiletries, blankets, and personal care items to children entering the foster care system in Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa, and Walton counties. Last year, the Foundation delivered more than 300 of these bags in partnership with local Kiwanis chapters, child welfare agencies, and student volunteers from the Key Club and Builders Club.

Bo Arnold, President of the Kiwanis Foundation of Niceville-Valparaiso, said the donation will allow the organization to build momentum.

“This generous support from the NextEra Energy Foundation allows us to continue and expand this vital program,” Arnold said. “We are deeply grateful for their commitment to our shared mission of improving the lives of children in crisis.”

J.T. Young, vice president and general manager for Florida Power & Light Company’s Northwest Region, said the donation is part of a broader effort to support strong, resilient communities.

“At FPL, we are honored to support the incredible work of the Kiwanis Foundation,” Young said. “Their Bags of Hope program improves the well-being of foster children by providing them with dignity, comfort, and a brighter future.”

The Kiwanis Foundation of Niceville-Valparaiso is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that works with schools, social service agencies, and local youth leadership programs to support children and families in the region.

To learn more about the Bags of Hope program or how to get involved, contact Bo Arnold.