Fall is upon us – the harvest is here, and the nights are getting colder. As the seasons change and the season of giving draws nearer, we at the Santa Barbara Foundation are reflecting on the importance of nourishment and safety for our communities. As we work to uplift our most vulnerable, we think of organizations like Via Majella and Route One who help people thrive every day. These groups are on the ground, providing opportunities for sustenance and warmth to those that need it most. We hope you enjoy learning more about how we are working with our nonprofit partners to uplift communities across Santa Barbara County.
“If we can turn a mother’s life around, then we have a chance at changing the trajectory for the whole family – and improving outcomes for all of the lives connected to that mother,” shared Loretta Johnson, Executive Director at Villa Majella of Santa Barbara, a nonprofit maternity home serving pregnant women in Santa Barbara County. Villa Majella is transforming the lives of women and their infants – and working to end generational homelessness in our communities. Learn more.
We believe everyone should have access to fresh healthy foods no matter their income level, which is why we are proud to support Route One Farmers Market in Lompoc. Route One is expanding food access for low-income residents by inviting them to use their Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card, offered through the CalFresh food benefit program, to purchase food! Learn more.
In October, SBF sponsored two Housing Day events in Santa Barbara and Santa Maria. These free public events provided community members the opportunity to connect with local nonprofit agencies & service providers and participate in housing related workshops. Housing affordability is vital for our homeless population, low-income residents, and for all workers in all industries that support our community. Learn more about Housing Day.
In early November, John F. Will and Tim Murphy were honored for their remarkable contributions to the Santa Maria Community at the Celebrate Philanthropy Luncheon. Celebrate Philanthropy, which is organized by the Santa Barbara Foundation, recognizes individuals, couples or families who, through direct service or financial support, have demonstrated outstanding civic and charitable work in the Santa Maria Valley. This year’s event was held outdoors at the Santa Maria Country Club. Learn more about this year’s honorees.
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