The St. Francis Foundation of Santa Barbara has awarded $800,000 in grants to 49 local organizations serving the health and well-being of individuals and families on Santa Barbara’s South Coast.
Now celebrating its 70th year, the St. Francis Foundation continues its legacy of thoughtful, compassionate philanthropy rooted in the healing tradition of St. Francis.
“The foundation’s grantmaking supports organizations that care for the whole person — addressing not only physical health, but also emotional, psychological, social and spiritual well-being,” organizers said.
This year’s grant recipients reflect the broad and evolving healthcare needs of the community, they said, with funding awarded to organizations and programs including:
Doctors Without Walls, Organic Soup Kitchen, VNA Health, Cottage Hospital, Easy Lift Transportation, Friendship Center, nursing scholarships, the Wellness Center, and a new health-focused program at San Marcos High School.
“These grants represent the heart of our mission,” said Tina Frontado, St. Francis Foundation executive director. “We are entrusted with resources that were given with deep purpose, and we take seriously our responsibility to be careful stewards of those funds.
“Our work is not simply about writing checks; it is about honoring a legacy, strengthening local healthcare, and supporting organizations that meet people where they are, with dignity and compassion.”
The St. Francis Foundation’s history is rooted in the former St. Francis Medical Center and its commitment to healing, service and care for those most in need.
The foundation continues that work by investing in local nonprofits that provide direct services, prevention, education, transportation, end-of-life care, mental health support, senior services, and access to essential healthcare resources.
The foundation celebrated this year’s grant recipients at its annual Grant Awards Celebration at the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club.
Through the generosity of Farmers & Merchants Bank, under the direction of Nolan Nicholson and Henry Walker, the entire event was underwritten, allowing all participating organizations and their guests to attend at no cost.
Grant recipients and their families were treated to an afternoon in the President’s Tent, including an open bar, buffet, and a private polo lesson and educational presentation.
“We wanted our grantees to feel celebrated,” said Tory Milazzo, board president. “So often, nonprofit leaders are the ones doing the hosting, fundraising and giving of themselves.
“This event is our way of saying: we see you, we value you, and we are grateful for the healing work you bring to our community.”