Santa Ynez Valley People Helping People (PHP) has officially paid off the remaining mortgage on its longtime headquarters, the organization has announced.
With an onerous balloon payment coming due on the loan, the Board of Directors said it was debating whether to simply meet that obligation or try to raise the $114,000 that would allow PHP to own the building outright.
John Kuelbs, former PHP Board president, and his wife Casey started the drive with a lead gift of $50,000, sparking immediate momentum, PHP said.
Inspired by the Kuelbs’ contribution, Erica Jane Flores, PHP CEO, reached out to community members to help.
Within six hours, Flores raised the remaining $64,000, reaching the goal by the end of the day.
“This achievement is not just about paying off a mortgage, it’s about ensuring the long-term sustainability of our mission to serve the Santa Ynez Valley community,” said Becky Barieau, PHP Board president.
The goal was reached thanks to the generosity of the following donors, PHP said: John and Casey Kuelbs, Lois and Sonny Brown, Linda Stafford Burrows, Julian and Janice Gangolli, Linda Gordon, Mike and Kathie Gordon, Priscilla Higgins, Ann Foxworthy Lewellen, Carla and Jon Mead, Jan Rome, and Ike and Lara Zekaria.
People Helping People offers a safety net to all Santa Ynez Valley residents (from infants to the elderly), but its clients are primarily working families who struggle to afford the basics and seniors on a fixed income.
A number of PHP clients work in the local hospitality industry, agriculture industry, or on ranches. PHP’s objective is to help people reach self-sufficiency, not just by getting them through a crisis, but by taking a holistic approach to help them to stabilize and thrive.
“This is more than a financial achievement, it’s a symbol of resilience, community spirit, and a shared belief in the work we do every day,” said Flores.
People Helping People has served as a lifeline for individuals and families in need in the Santa Ynez Valley for more than 30 years. For more, visit syvphp.org.