Eight nonprofit organizations across the Emerald Coast are splitting more than $55,000 in donations from Beachside Church this year, part of an initiative that has now distributed $428,375 since 2012.

• “We partner with non-profits in our community who are just doing really, really great work and help them go further, faster,” said Jonathan Watson, lead pastor of Beachside.

The church’s FOR The Emerald Coast initiative combines financial giving with hands-on service. During the annual Serve Day, church members logged 981 volunteer hours — one of the most impactful service efforts in the church’s history.

Beyond the $55,151 in direct funding, members donated 2,363 pantry items to Children in Crisis and provided 142 pairs of pajamas to children and families in need.

The church hosts “FOR Sunday” throughout the year, giving attendees opportunities to serve beyond the church walls.

• Beachside Church has been part of the Fort Walton Beach community for more than 15 years.

“For those of you that served and for those of you that gave, thank you,” Watson said. “These things make a big difference, and they make a big difference right here in our community.”

For more information about FOR The Emerald Coast or Beachside Church, visit https://beachside.org/.