Merger to Increase Family Support Services in Guadalupe
GUADALUPE AND SANTA BARBARA – Family Service Agency (FSA) of Santa Barbara County and Guadalupe’s Little House by the Park have merged, effective July 1, 2019. FSA is the legal entity, and Little House by the Park’s identity, vision, and good work in the community continues uninterrupted.
Combining the strengths of both organizations creates the opportunity for increased services in Guadalupe as well as greater stability, organizational efficiency, and combined staff expertise.
“The merger with Little House by the Park benefits both organizations,” said Brabo. “FSA is supporting Little House by the Park in expanding existing services, such as making mental health counseling available. And Little House by the Park is sharing its successful parent engagement expertise with FSA, so we can more effectively support healthy home environments for children across the county.”
“At Little House by the Park, families and individuals are not seen as mere recipients of services but as a vital and integral part of their community,” said Director, Sam Duarte.
Little House by the Park is a trusted intermediary between residents and community institutions such as the Guadalupe Union School District, helping families that need help with medical, insurance, housing, counseling, and nutritional needs. The Guadalupe Parent Academy offers free educational opportunities in leadership development, education, health, and parenting.
For more information about Family Service Agency, Santa Maria Valley Youth & Family Center, and Little House by the Park, visit fsacares.org.
Family Service Agency of Santa Barbara County (FSA) is a nonprofit social service agency that has served the people of Santa Barbara County since 1899. Operating as Santa Maria Valley Youth and Family Center (SMVYFC) in Santa Maria and Little House By The Park (LHP) in Guadalupe, FSA works to help the community’s most vulnerable children, families, and seniors meet their basic needs while simultaneously addressing mental health needs. Through this holistic approach, FSA improves the strength and well-being of our community. All services are provided free or on a sliding fee/donation scale and no one is denied assistance because of an inability to pay. Visit fsacares.org or call (805) 965-1001 for more information.