Seven local nonprofits are receiving a combined $100,000 through the Women’s Fund of Santa Barbara’s inaugural Small Grants Pilot Program.

Grants of $10,000 or $25,000 will provide flexible, unrestricted funding to support organizations addressing critical needs for women, children and families in south Santa Barbara County, the Women’s Fund said.



The Small Grants Pilot Program was started in response to member input and research into the needs of smaller nonprofits. Demand exceeded expectations: 61 local agencies requested $1.24 million — more than 12 times the funds available.

The seven grant recipients address needs in health, nutrition, education, aging, family support, and mental health.  

“As a collective giving circle, the Women’s Fund pools donations from members so we can make significant grants to nonprofits,” said Carolyn Jabs, Women’s Fund Board chair. “The enthusiastic response to this pilot program made it clear that, for smaller agencies, a small grant can be very significant.”

The 2026 Small Grants Program pecipients are:

Adams Angels — $10,000; distributes food, clothing, hygiene supplies, and other essentials to people in crisis.

Breast Cancer Resource Center — $25,000; supports people affected by breast cancer.

Center for Successful Aging — $25,000; addresses the psychological, emotional, spiritual, and social needs of seniors, families, and caregivers.

Friends of the Santa Barbara Library — $10,000; supports and strengthens literacy programs.

HELP of Carpinteria — $10,000; provides affordable transportation for Carpinteria seniors who cannot drive.

The Thriving Initiative — $10,000; expands mental health support for college students affected by sexual assault, stalking, and domestic violence.

Therapy Dogs of Santa Barbara — $10,000; brings trained therapy dogs into classrooms to promote student well-being.

The Women’s Fund of Santa Barbara brings women together to combine their charitable dollars to fund grants addressing the critical needs of women, children and families in south Santa Barbara County.

Members will vote in March on major grants, typically ranging from $50,000-$200,000. Recipients will be announced at the Celebration of Grants on May 12 at the Lobero Theatre.

To join or learn more about the Women’s Fund, visit www.womensfundsb.org.