The St. Francis Foundation of Santa Barbara has officially sold its property at 2323 De La Vina St. to Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation (TBCF), creating a home for an organization devoted to supporting families battling pediatric cancer.
The sale of the building, which is next door to Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital, marks a milestone for both nonprofits, enabling Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation (TBCF) to establish a permanent base where children with cancer and their families can find both emotional and financial support in one welcoming, accessible location.
The collaboration between executive directors Tina Frontado of St. Francis Foundation, and Brittany Avila Wazny of Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation was instrumental in crafting an agreement that reflects the missions of both organizations, TBCF said.
Their joint leadership and shared vision were matched by the efforts of board presidents Tory Milazzo of St. Francis, and Andrew Miller of TBCF, who guided their respective boards through the process to a unanimous and enthusiastic approval, according to TBCF.
“This is a win-win-win for everyone,” said Frontado. “Not just for our two organizations, but for the entire Santa Barbara community.”
“Having a permanent home next to the hospital means the families we serve can rely on us for years to come and have a home away from home; it’s a gift of stability, dignity and hope.” Wazny said.
Two years ago, TBCF conducted a comprehensive feasibility study, including interviews with dozens of former recipients.
“Asked how TBCF could address any gaps in our care, one need stood out: families overwhelmingly expressed that having a nearby space for supportive services during their child’s treatment would have made a significant difference,” the foundation said.
When the St. Francis Foundation learned of TBCF’s search for a building near the hospital, it stepped up and offered the property at a price below market value, TBCF said.
St. Francis Foundation also helped TBCF secure a nontraditional loan, making it possible to move forward with the purchase.
“We plan to renovate the space and transform the building into the Central Coast’s first and only pediatric cancer support center, where families can find respite, access critical support services, connect with our staff, or simply take a quiet moment to rest, away from the hospital,” TBCF said.
Both foundations expressed gratitude to be part of a deal that places mission at the center and serves as a model for collaborative nonprofit partnerships.