Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation (TBCF) has signed a partnership agreement with Hearts Aligned to sublet a space in TBCF’s newly purchased Pediatric Cancer Support Center steps away from Cottage Hospital.
The event marks a major step toward creating the tri-county’s first comprehensive pediatric support center, TBCF said.
“This milestone represents a powerful collaboration between two local nonprofits dedicated to serving families that are navigating devastating childhood illnesses and creating a nurturing space during one of the most challenging times of their lives,” TBCF said.
In 2025, TBCF purchased space at 2323 De La Vina St. to expand its ability to support families in conjunction with treatment and doctor’s appointments.
The proximity to Cottage Hospital allows families to use the center for respite; have difficult conversations in a safe and private space; find connection; and have better access to resources like a no-cost food pantry.
Looking ahead, TBCF plans to fully renovate the space to create a welcoming, family-centered environment.
Renovation plans include private rooms for caregivers who need quiet time away from the hospital but wish to remain close by; a fully stocked food pantry; recreation room for siblings; and private spaces for therapy sessions, confidential conversations, or even a restorative nap.
Hearts Aligned, a local pediatric nonprofit founded in 2021, shares a similar mission with TBCF. While TBCF supports families of children diagnosed with cancer, Hearts Aligned serves families with critically ill children without a cancer diagnosis.
By partnering in the same space, the two organizations will work together to serve more families across Santa Barbara County, meeting both cancer and non-cancer pediatric critical care needs.
“Everyone benefits when nonprofit organizations pool their resources and collaborate to support the families we serve,” said Brittany Avila Wazny, TBCF’s executive director. “Now the families we serve have a haven just steps away from Cottage Hospital.”
“We’re grateful to be invited to share this wonderful space with TBCF and expand both agency’s reach in our community,” said Vivian Solodkin, executive director of Hearts Aligned.
Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation advocates for families living in Santa Barbara, Ventura and San Luis Obispo counties that have a child with cancer by providing financial, emotional and educational support.
The Hearts Aligned mission is to provide financial assistance, family support and advocacy to families with a critically ill child living in Santa Barbara County.