Facility Aims to Protect Florida’s Native Species with Critical Rescue and Rehab Services

Panhandle Wildlife Rescue (PWR) is proud to announce the grand  opening of its new, full-scale wildlife rehabilitation center and hospital in Freeport, FL. PWR is a vital part  of the Florida Panhandle, providing life-saving care and rehabilitation to native wildlife species across 11  counties from Navarre to Tallahassee.

The new facility will allow PWR to expand its mission of rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing sick,  injured, and orphaned wildlife, admitting between 1,000 and 2,000 patients annually. With a focus on  medical care, orphan rearing, and intensive rehabilitation, PWR gives Florida’s wild animals a second  chance of survival in one of the fastest developing and ecologically rich regions in the country.

“The opening of this facility, thanks to a transformative donation from Ryan Jumonville and Family, marks  a major step forward in our commitment to the wildlife of the Emerald Coast,” said Shelby Robinson,  founder and executive director of Panhandle Wildlife Rescue.

The Florida Panhandle is home to the most biodiverse terrestrial ecosystem in the contiguous United  States. From the upland pine forests to the pelagic depths of the Gulf, PWR treats hundreds of species  every year, striving to mitigate the growing impact of human development on native wildlife.

PWR’s “Respect the Locals” campaign highlights the increasing frequency of human/wildlife interactions  in the region. Through education and citizen science initiatives, the campaign empowers residents and  visitors to coexist more peacefully with native Florida species. “Nothing feeds the soul more than  watching a once-broken creature return to the wild.” says Raven Smith, head of PWR development.

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Panhandle Wildlife Rescue receives no federal, state, or local  funding. All operations, including rescues, surgeries, critical care, and a 24/7 wildlife rescue hotline, are  funded entirely by community donations. For more information, to donate, or to get involved, visit  www.panhandlewildliferescue.com.

24 hour hotline, 850-889-1104

Freeport address: 5951 Highway 20

An alternate facility for intakes is located at 256 Miley Road in Freeport.