The goal of our Family Resource Center is to strengthen and empower families by helping them meet primary needs, access community resources, build upon family strengths and improve family relations. To improve outcomes for both families and community, our Center brings together services that educate, develop skills and improve family relations. Our approach increases the capacity of families to be healthy, involved members of their community. Core funding is provided by the First 5 Santa Barbara County, Santa Barbara County Human Services, Santa Barbara County Department of Social Services, United Way & Santa Barbara Foundation.

The FRC provides group support (parent education, on-going classes, peer support and group counseling) as well as individual support (resource & referral, assistance on forms, distribution of goods, individual counseling and case management) to families. Free child care is provided to participating families. Outside agencies use the FRC to provide services and programming to Isla Vista families to eliminate the need for transportation outside the area.

The Case Management and Counseling components provide intensive individualized support to families to help them achieve goals and improve quality of life. Other on-going services offered in the center include monthly health presentations and food distribution, an emergency food pantry, English as Second Language (ESL) classes for community families in conjunction with Santa Barbara City College Adult Education, and community outreach. Additionally, we provide on going parent education classes to help parents in the areas of discipline, communication, and health and safety. Families also participate in regular Family Fun Nights designed to encourage positive and developmentally appropriate activities between parents and children.


        For additional information or questions please contact the Program Coordinator or Family Advocate.