FREEPORT, Fla. — A wildlife rescue center serving Northwest Florida has received a $25,000 donation to help care for injured and orphaned animals during the busy spring season.
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Panhandle Wildlife Rescue, located in Freeport, was one of three wildlife nonprofits awarded $25,000 each by the NextEra Energy Foundation on behalf of Florida Power & Light Company (FPL). The foundation also delivered essential supplies from the organization’s wish list.
The gift arrives at a critical time. Each spring, the rescue center becomes overwhelmed with baby animals in need — from raccoons and birds to squirrels, owls, and hawks — many of which require round-the-clock attention.
Co-founders Shelby Robinson and Jim Johnson lead the nonprofit with a small team, caring for animals that often need to be fed every 30 minutes and require constant monitoring.
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“Our mission is to give the wildlife a second chance at life because many of them are here due to human causes,” said Ms Robinson.
“We thank the NextEra Energy Foundation and FPL for their support to save these animals because our mission would not be possible without the support of partners like them.”
The rescue recently moved to a new 10-acre facility, which opened in 2024 and is said to be working toward becoming the region’s leading wildlife rehabilitation and trauma hospital.
The center serves Walton, Okaloosa, and Bay counties, all within FPL’s Northwest Florida service area. Services include trauma response, medical care, and illness prevention, all offered at no cost to the public.
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Ms Robinson said the need for wildlife rescue continues to grow as development spreads across the region. She expects the center to care for as many as 2,000 animals this year — both adult and juvenile — representing more than 250 species.
J.T. Young, vice president and general manager of FPL’s Northwest region, said the company is proud to support causes that matter to local residents.
“We aim to demonstrate our unwavering commitment to powering stronger communities and supporting the causes that matter most to our customers,” said Mr Young.
“Wildlife conservation is a core value for many in Northwest Florida, and we are honored to support initiatives that align with these priorities.”
To learn more or donate, visit Panhandle Wildlife Rescue.
