Support will help families in Okaloosa and Walton Counties better understand and respond to childhood trauma
The Florida Legislature has awarded $300,000 in funding to The Pearl Project, a nonprofit dedicated to helping caregivers better understand and support children who have experienced trauma. The appropriation—sponsored by Senator Stan McClain and Representative Ryan Chamberlin—will enable the organization to expand its reach across the state, including in communities throughout Okaloosa and Walton Counties.
Families and professionals in Niceville, Freeport, Fort Walton Beach, Destin, Valparaiso, and Santa Rosa Beach are expected to benefit directly from the expansion of The Pearl Project’s trauma-informed training programs, caregiver support groups, and virtual services. With the increased funding, the organization aims to address the growing need for accessible mental health support, especially in areas where resources are limited.
“This funding represents hope for thousands of Florida families who are struggling to understand and support children who have experienced trauma,” said Stephen Zedler, co-founder of The Pearl Project. “When caregivers gain insight into how trauma affects a child’s brain, body, beliefs, and behavior, it transforms relationships—and healing becomes possible. This legislative investment will help us reach more families than ever before and create ripple effects of healing throughout our communities.”
The Pearl Project’s evidence-based approach helps caregivers move beyond simply managing behaviors to recognizing the deeper trauma responses behind them. Their programs emphasize empathy, healing, and resilience—and are now more accessible to families in Northwest Florida than ever before.
Locally, this means:
- Expanded trainings and workshops in Fort Walton Beach, such as the recent trauma-informed care training held at Emerald Coast Church.
- Active involvement with both the Fort Walton Beach and Niceville-Valparaiso Chambers of Commerce, strengthening community connections and awareness.
- The ongoing success of the Niceville Kid-2-Kid Closet, which provides foster and adoptive families with much-needed clothing and supplies in a trauma-informed, dignified setting.
- Increased access to virtual and in-person resources for rural families in communities like Freeport and northern Walton County.
- New family support specialist roles, improving access to trauma-wise support across Okaloosa and Walton Counties.
“Supporting families dealing with childhood trauma is not just a moral imperative—it’s an investment in Florida’s future,” said Senator McClain. “The Pearl Project’s work helps break cycles of trauma and creates stronger, more resilient families.”
Representative Chamberlin added, “Every child deserves a safe, understanding home environment where they can heal and thrive. This funding will help more Florida families access life-changing services—especially in underserved areas where mental health resources are often scarce.”
Zedler emphasized the long-term impact: “When we help one caregiver understand trauma’s impact, we’re actually helping every child that person will ever encounter. That’s the kind of ripple effect we’re aiming for—right here in Northwest Florida.”
With mental health needs on the rise and qualified professionals in short supply, this funding comes at a critical time. Expanded programming is set to roll out through fiscal year 2026, and hiring is already underway.
Families and professionals in Okaloosa and Walton Counties interested in services or training opportunities can learn more by visiting www.thepearlproject.org. Organizations looking to host workshops or partner with The Pearl Project can contact Stephen Zedler directly at stephen@thepearlproject.org.
