A donation from Children’s Resource and Referral of Santa Barbara County has enabled Fighting Back Santa Maria Valley and the Partnership of Community Schools to secure essential items for Santa Maria High School students and families. 
 
Through this community partnership, a van load of much-needed items was donated, including bassinets, school supplies, Mommy Box Kits, playpens, bottle warmers, baby wipes, diapers, baby wash, lotion, diaper cream, and hygiene kits, according to the school district.  

“These contributions go far beyond the items themselves,” the district said. “They represent a community coming together to ensure that families have access to the basic necessities they need to thrive.

“Community partnerships like these are essential to the ability to serve the whole child and support the whole family.”
 
“Providing a box of diapers, a hygiene kit, or essential supplies to a family may seem like a small act, but it can remove a significant barrier and allow families to focus on what matters most, supporting their children and helping them succeed,” organizers said.

“This work directly aligns with our district’s Community Schools initiative, which is centered on connecting families with resources, strengthening partnerships, and addressing the needs that can impact a student’s ability to learn and succeed,” they said.
 
“When our schools and our community organizations work together, we can do more than educate; we can connect families to resources, strengthen our communities, and create conditions where every student has the opportunity to thrive,” said Nancy Pacheco, Community Schools lead, Santa Maria High School.

“This work is very important, and we are so grateful for the support that Children’s Resource and Referral has given us to be able to make this work possible” she said.

“We are incredibly grateful for the Children’s Resource Center and all their staff for their generosity and continued commitment to supporting local families and students,” said Jessica Tafolla, program specialist with Fighting Back Santa Maria Valley.

“Donations such as these make a meaningful difference and help ensure that our students and their children have access to essential resources and support,” she said.
 
“As a community liaison, my role is centered around connecting students and families with resources and support to help them overcome barriers,” said Alondra Zarate-Zavala. “These items will provide meaningful assistance to our families and make a genuine difference in their lives.”