The County of Santa Barbara Probation Department, on Dec. 17 and Dec. 19, conducted countywide wellness checks of youth under its supervision to ensure the safety and wellbeing of both the youth and their families.

To support families during the holiday season, probation officers distributed toys, games and clothing, donated by the Goleta Costco, United Way, and Community Solutions, Inc., along with food boxes from the Santa Maria Elks Lodge, and grocery store gift cards provided by the Probation Department.

The Holiday Wellness Operation’s objectives were to assess living environments, identify the needs of the youth and their family members, and provide information about available community resources.

The operation was considered a success, resulting in 35 homes visited and no arrests.

“Our Holiday Wellness Operation provides an opportunity to support the youth we supervise and their families,” said Chief Probation Officer Holly Benton.

“This operation reinforces our ongoing efforts to promote stability and success by connecting families with the resources they need to thrive,” she said.