This October 31st we received our 501c3 designation and we are celebrating! Since our first grant to a Hospice of Santa Barbara client in October of 2022, we have provided basic needs support of over $76,000 to 234 individuals and families. With your generosity we have helped to keep people housed, fed, and repaired cars so they can get to treatment and work. We've paid past due utilities bills, provided clothing, and replaced a bed for a local woman newly widowed.
Sometimes the difference between housed today and not tomorrow is $900. Keeping the water on for a family with a child battling cancer is $200. Despite the extraordinary service of our community nonprofits, there are gaps in support that cannot be met by those organizations or government support.
Four years ago, mid lockdown, Virginia and I started talking about how to make her and John's vision for storytelling and giving a reality. We looked for the places where already vulnerable people were falling through the cracks - what did they need and how could we help? And once we've helped with the urgent needs, how can we offer a safe place to share the story of their experience, to shed some of the layers of that trauma, and hear similar stories from others? This month marks two years of funding and storytelling along the central coast
Coming into our third year, with the leadership of our board members and staff (pictured below) we've proven that this model works and now it's time to grow. I hope you will join us on October 24th as we usher in year three and raise funds to expand the work we do. Because of them, us and because of your support - we can do more for more.
Come raise a glass, maybe tell a story, honor a Star in your life, and celebrate the good work The Starfish Connection does! Thank you for your support, we're excited to see you soon!
Be well,
Sarah Abrams
