The Santa Barbara Rescue Mission’s 23rd annual fundraising event Passport to the Bayou raised more than $550,000 to help continue its work in supporting individuals struggling with addiction and homelessness.
This year’s event, held Oct. 5 at Rancho Dos Pueblos, honored Rob Fredericks, executive director of the Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara, with the Léni Fé Bland Award for his leadership in the field of affordable housing.
For more than 20 years, Fredericks has been a champion of providing secure and affordable housing solutions to the community, making a significant impact in the region.
Proceeds from the benefit will support the Rescue Mission’s essential services, including its 12-month residential drug and alcohol treatment program and emergency and transitional services for the homeless.
Over its nearly 60-year history, the Santa Barbara Rescue Mission has become a cornerstone provider of critical community services.
This year, the Rescue Mission celebrated a milestone: the graduation of its 1,000th participant from the treatment program, which began in 1997.
“By coming together, we’re not only changing lives but transforming entire families. The impact of the Mission and the generosity of our donors will ripple through generations, bringing hope and freedom for years to come,” said Rolf Geyling, Santa Barbara Rescue Mission president.
Established in 1965, Santa Barbara Rescue Mission, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, brings physical, emotional, educational, and spiritual resources to individuals and families in need.
It is the only organization between Oxnard and Santa Maria that provides hot meals and overnight accommodations to homeless guests 365 days of the year.
The Rescue Mission offers men’s and women’s 12-month residential treatment, family support, relapse prevention, men’s sober living, academic instruction, and job skills training. The Rescue Mission receives no government funding.