SoWal Life and SoWal Connections

09/07/2026

We can’t wait!

09/04/2026

https://www.facebook.com/share/1EQP4c9vnw/

❤️ 40 REFERRALS IN THE FIRST MONTH OF SCHOOL.

In just the first month of school, Matrix C.O.C.’s Generation Next program has already received 40 referrals for homeless and vulnerable students right here in Walton County.

And this need reaches across our county:

📍 Walton Middle School — 8
📍 Maude Saunders Elementary — 7
📍 WISE Center — 6
📍 Walton High School — 6
📍 West DeFuniak Elementary — 6
📍 Paxton School — 5
📍 Freeport Elementary — 1
📍 Freeport High School — 1

These are our kids. In our schools. In our communities. And we need your help.

Would you sponsor a child and help us provide for their needs?

👕 Elementary Student — $85
👟 Middle School Student — $110
👖 High School Student — $130

❤️ SPONSOR A CHILD HERE:
👉 https://www.matrixcoc.org/donate

Your sponsorship helps provide for immediate needs including:
2 pairs of pants • 2 shirts • new shoes • a pack of socks • a pack of underwear

You don't have to know their name or their story to make a difference. Your gift can help a child walk into school with clothes that fit, new shoes on their feet, and the confidence to focus on being a kid and getting an education.

Can't sponsor the full amount? That's okay. Every dollar helps us get closer to meeting the needs of all 40 referrals.

40 referrals. 8 Walton County schools. One community that can make a difference.

08/15/2026

Thank you Lisa for making America beautiful!

08/11/2026

Meet and greet with County Commissioner District 2 Candidate Warren Whitaker this Friday, Aug. 14th from 5-8 p.m. at Chateau Le Coeur in Defuniak Springs. Q&A with w**e tasting and light refreshments provided.

(Political advertisement paid for by candidate.)

Walton County is a special place to live, work, and raise a family. From our vibrant rural roots to our growing communities, the county holds tremendous

08/11/2026

Reminder: nominate your favorite businesses for the 2027 Perfect in Walton County awards by August 14th! Nominate here:

Vote for your favorite businesses, hotels, restaurants and more in the Perfect in Walton County Awards.

08/11/2026

08/05/2026

❤️ It Takes a Community

Our 24/7 Little Free Pantry is more than just a wooden box. It’s a lifeline for neighbors who need emergency food when no one else is open.

For years, YOU have kept it stocked, making sure no one in our community has to go hungry. Because of your generosity, this little pantry has helped countless families.

Unfortunately, after years of serving our community, the pantry itself is falling apart. The wood is dry rotted, weathered, and in desperate need of replacement.

We’re hoping someone in our community would be willing to donate the materials and labor to build a new one. If possible, we’d love to make it a little larger so it can hold even more food for families in need.

🎨 The best part? We already have a local artist ready to repaint it!

If you or someone you know can help, send us a message here on Facebook or reach out to 850-307-8100.

Together, we can continue making sure help is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for anyone who needs it.

❤️ Because caring for our neighbors is what community is all about.

08/01/2026

Somewhere along the way of growing up and adulthood, you can begin to lose both the pursuit and the childlike fascination with joy. Adult life is best lived in a state of balance between taking care of business and consistent, intentional pursuit of “Weeeeeee!” moments.

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By Stephenie Craig When do you last remember experiencing such fun and glee that your face hurt from smiling and your body was overwhelmed with joy?

08/01/2026

Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport is partnering with the Northwest Regional Library System to give travelers a new way to enjoy their journey with the launch of the ECP FlyBrary: a free, community-driven library located inside the Terminal.

Take a book, leave a book, and enjoy reading while traveling. Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) is partnering with the Northwest