Jamie Dufek, Board Chair, welcomed a large group of members, guests, and sponsors to the celebration and congratulated the 2022-2023 grantees by saying, “We are inspired by the work you do and the difference you make in this community. You are WHY the Women’s Fund exists.” In her remarks about this year’s awardees, Research Co-chair Marita Hawryluk pointed out “You, as members, reviewed and then voted to select the agencies who are here today to receive funds from the Women’s Fund for 2023. The 10 agencies chosen this year will have an impact in the areas of homelessness and housing, mental health, food and nutrition, family support services, and domestic violence.” Congratulations to our grantees! Second Story Associates received a $50,000 grant to pay for basic household furnishings for 28 studio apartments which will provide permanent supportive housing for individuals who have been homeless. Alpha Resource Center received a $140,000 grant to install air conditioning and six automated doors that will improve safety and comfort for clients with disabilities. Alzheimer’s Association of Central Coast received a $30,000 grant to pay for culturally appropriate materials and training for Promotores to educate Latino families about the symptoms and management of dementia and Alzheimer’s. Family Service Agency received a $100,000 grant to pay for a half-time bilingual community mental health navigator who will connect people experiencing mental health problems with appropriate services. Food From the Heart received a $75,000 grant to pay for a flatbed truck equipped with staked sides and storage boxes to transport excess produce to other nonprofits. Hillside House received a $100,000 grant to pay for a customized van adapted to accommodate four residents in wheelchairs and their aids. Santa Barbara County Immigrant Legal Defense Center received a $130,000 grant to partially pay for case management for unaccompanied immigrant children, provided by a social work case manager supervised by a licensed clinical social worker. Independent Living Resource Center received a $100,000 grant to pay for a full-time youth advocate who will help youth with disabilities develop independent living skills. Legal Aid Foundation received a $100,000 grant to partially pay salary and benefits for a legal assistant who will help attorneys prepare legal representation in domestic abuse cases. St. Vincent’s received a $100,000 grant to pay the salary for the peer support specialist who helps formerly homeless single mothers successfully adjust to St. Vincent’s program. |