Hi Marianne,

I’m reaching out to ask you to please consider making a gift to Family Service Agency today. Our board, along with several generous donors, will match the first $25,000 in donations—doubling your impact!

Your support is vital in our mission to aid children, families, and seniors. The demand for assistance has increased significantly, and we need your help to continue providing these crucial services.

Your donation helps families like the Garcias. The Garcia family, Laura, Peter and their two children, Gabriela and Isabel, were new to our community—and they were struggling. Basic needs systems such as health care and insurance, food acquisition and housing assistance were frustrating to access, and the information provided was difficult to understand.

A new school, language barriers and bullying from fellow students had a marked impact on Isabel and Gabriela. Isabel, a bright and motivated 8-year-old, found herself falling further and further behind her classmates and her self-esteem plummeted. Gabriela, 6, became angry and often struggled with controlling her emotions.

Unable to effectively communicate with school staff about their children’s challenges, Laura and Peter were frightened and overwhelmed.

Referral to an FSA Family Advocate turned out to be the lifeline the Garcias needed. Connecting with a caring professional who deeply understood their situation resulted in the creation of a plan of action for the family, including facilitating access to physical and mental health services. Isabel and Gabriela began to thrive and started looking forward to attending school. Laura continued with FSA parenting classes enabling her to better cope with the challenges faced by her children.

The Garcia family’s story etches in bold strokes the profound impact FSA provides to families navigating stormy waters. Their journey is a powerful reminder that with the right support, the most arduous of challenges can be overcome, and life can stabilize.

Through partnerships like yours, together we strengthen the fabric of families and communities in Santa Barbara County. Will you make a 100%

tax-deductible donation to Family Service Agency in support of families, children, and seniors?

Thank you for investing in our community.

With gratitude,

Lisa Brabo

Chief Executive Officer

P.S. Don’t forget, gifts made today through December 31 will be doubled!

P.S.S. You can also donate via mail. Send checks to FSA, 123 W. Gutierrez St. Santa Barbara, CA 93101.