Local Businesses Support Animals in Need at Santa Barbara Humane

This holiday season, three South County businesses — Santa Barbara Coastal Candles, The Thrifty Flea in Carpinteria, and Dean: a coffee shop in Goleta — offer ways to give through shopping experiences that benefit animals at Santa Barbara Humane.

“We are so grateful to benefit from the unique opportunities at each of these businesses,” said Sofia Rodriguez, Chief Philanthropy Officer at Santa Barbara Humane. “Each business is doing something so special that community members could shop all three and triple their generosity and support!”

Santa Barbara Coastal Candles is a family-run candle and gift company specializing in hand-poured, organic candles that are as beautiful as they are sustainable. With a paw print two-wick design, hand-poured organic rice wax, and a Channel Islands Mist scent, the candle is one-of-a-kind. The community is encouraged to visit their website to purchase a candle of their choice. They offer a cat version, dog version, and one with both on the label. Shipping is also available for those family and friends you can’t see this year.

Because holiday shopping isn’t complete without a festive beverage, another local partner is offering a peppermint treat that also raises funds for animals.

Dean: a coffee shop in Goleta has been a partner of Santa Barbara Humane since the café’s grand opening in the fall of 2020. This December, patrons are encouraged to order a special menu item called “The Iced Peppermint Mocha Matilda.” Three dollars of each purchase of this chocolate peppermint iced coffee will be donated to Santa Barbara Humane to provide compassionate, high-quality care to all animals.

Another unique experience is thrifting by visiting The Thrifty Flea in Carpinteria. This family-owned thrift store opened this fall on Linden Ave and quickly became a local favorite filled with housewares, clothing, furniture, and other treasures. You never know what you will find at their shop, and because they donate a portion of proceeds to the shelter year-round, you can keep going back even after the holiday season.

“Local donations like the efforts of these businesses make it possible to provide affordable or free care to the community, keeping animals happy and healthy in loving homes,” Rodriguez said. “If you are already out and about shopping for loved ones, this is a way to support Santa Barbara Humane and valuable local businesses when they have been hit so hard by the pandemic.”

The community is also encouraged to visit sbhumane.org/give to explore the many ways to make a difference at Santa Barbara Humane this holiday season, and all year long.