St. Francis Foundation Sells Property to Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation

Securing a Permanent Home for Families Facing Pediatric Cancer

The St. Francis Foundation of Santa Barbara officially sold its property to the Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation, creating an established home for the local nonprofit devoted to supporting families battling pediatric cancer.

The sale marks a significant milestone for both nonprofits, enabling Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation (TBCF) to establish a permanent base where children with cancer and their families can find both emotional and financial support in one welcoming, accessible location.

The new office is located just steps away from Cottage Hospital in Santa Barbara making it easier for families to be closer to treatment.

The collaboration between Executive Directors Tina Frontado of St. Francis Foundation and Brittany Avila Wazny of Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation has been hailed as instrumental in crafting an agreement that reflects the missions of both organizations. Board Presidents Tory Milazzo (St. Francis) and Andrew Miller (TBCF) guided their respective boards through the process to a unanimous and enthusiastic approval, the nonprofits state.

“This is a win-win-win for everyone,” said Frontado. “Not just for our two organizations, but for the entire Santa Barbara community.”

Wazny added, “Having a permanent home next to the hospital means the families we serve can rely on us for years to come and have a home away from home—it’s a gift of stability, dignity, and hope.”

Both foundations expressed deep gratitude to be part of a deal that places mission at the center and serves as a model for collaborative nonprofit partnerships.

Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation advocates for families living in Santa Barbara, Ventura, and San Luis Obispo counties that have a child with cancer by providing financial, educational, and emotional support.

The mission of the St. Francis Foundation of Santa Barbara is to promote and support healthcare in the St. Francis tradition in the Santa Barbara South Coast community, with particular attention to those most in need.