Non-Profit of the Week: Community Disaster Relief Fund

Source: County of Santa Barbara

Following the Thomas Fire and the devastation caused by subsequent flooding and mudslides, the Santa Barbara Foundation activated a Community Disaster Relief Fund. Donations are being accepted in an effort to provide critical financial assistance to nonprofit organizations that are actively engaged in emergency response and recovery operations.

According to the Santa Barbara Foundation, the need for financial resources to support nonprofit and government response and recovery efforts is growing significantly as the frequency and severity of natural and human-caused disasters increases. The Community Diaster Relief Fund is designed to address this need, and is activated following an emergency.

The Community Disaster Relief Fund is committed to supporting nonprofit organizations in both short and long-term recovery operations. The Santa Barbara Foundation is collaborating with the Santa Barbara County Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (SBC VOAD) as these agencies work to help everyone who has been displaced and impacted by the Thomas Fire and January Storm event. Funding decisions will also be made in coordination with United Way of Santa Barbara County, and the Thomas Fire & Flood Relief Fund organized in partnership with United Way of Ventura County.

The Santa Barbara Foundation is not providing housing assistance or financial assistance directly to individuals and families, but is focused on ensuring that all funds received through the Community Disaster Relief Fund will be utilized in support of these nonprofit organizations. Initial grants are expected to be distributed in February.

The county has a long road of recovery ahead. To donate, click here or visit www.sbfoundation.org, click “Make a Donation,” and choose Community Disaster Relief Fund as your designation.

All queries and questions regarding the Community Disaster Relief Fund should be directed to Barbara Andersen, Chief Strategy Officer with the Santa Barbara Foundation, at (805) 963-1873 or email to bandersen@sbfoundation.org.