Family Matters Blog
Free Course Teaches Three Steps to Help Prevent Suicide
Family Service Agency and Youthwell have partnered to provide free QPR mental health training — Question, Persuade, and Refer — 3 simple steps anyone can learn.
FSA Unveils Program to Help Older Adults Age in Place
FSA’s case management for seniors includes support for accessing resources such as food, health care, in-home services, financial assistance, and transportation
New Program Helps Seniors Build Skills for Self-Sufficiency, Lead More Active and Rewarding Lives
FSA has launched the Program to Encourage Active, Rewarding Lives (PEARLS) to enhance older adults’ well-being by empowering them with the skills to thrive.
Santa Maria Leaders Reflect on SMVYFC 50th Anniversary
Board members and other local leaders recently reflected on the impact SMVYFC has made during its half century of service, supporting thousands of families each year in stabilizing and achieving greater well-being.
One of a 1,000 points of light – R.M. Pyles Boys Camp
The Santa Maria Valley Youth & Family Center has been selecting candidates for the life-changing R.M. Pyles Boys Camp since 1985.
Arcelia Sención Named Chief Strategy-North County Programs Officer
Arcelia Sención will manage operations at FSA’s North County Santa Maria Valley Youth & Family Center office at 105 N. Lincoln Street.
The Little House By The Park Receives $140k Grant
The Little House by the Park (LHP), has been selected receive a $140,000 grant as part of the Central Coast Creative Corps (CCCC) Program.
‘Dedicated Dads’ Lead to Healthy Kids
The Dedicated Dads program helps fathers, and father figures, importance of their role in raising children.
Outreach Mentors Make Lasting Impressions on Students
If you grew up in the Santa Maria-Bonita School District (SMBSD), more than likely an Outreach Mentor has touched your life.
Dreams in Bloom Raises Record Funds
The sold-out event raised a record $250,000 to benefit the children, families, and seniors served by FSA—which includes Santa Maria Valley Youth & Family Center and Guadalupe’s Little House by the Park.
Social Work Breaks Barriers
As School Social Worker, Cindy helps address student challenges that might otherwise go unaided by academic counselors and teachers.
Strong Relationships Improve Outcomes for Children
Family advocates help ten families, a total of 47 individuals, displaced by flooding after Guadalupe received 3.4 inches of rain on January 9.
Help for Guadalupe Families Displaced by Floods
Family advocates help ten families, a total of 47 individuals, displaced by flooding after Guadalupe received 3.4 inches of rain on January 9.
FSA is named Public Health Champion in Santa Barbara County
FSA a Public Health Champion in the counties first ever “Public Health Week”.
FSA and Partners Deliver Masks and Resources to Santa Maria Families
Last week, Family Service Agency along with partnering agencies served 400 families in a large mask and resource distribution at Alvin School.
8 Ways to be a Better Communicator this Valentine’s Day
This Valentine’s Day, give your partner the gift of communication. We are always thinking of ways to show our partner that we care, but how often does that involve self-reflection and growth? Communication is not just the words that we use, but rather, the tone of our voice, our body language, the way we react to our partner, and a long list of other subtle gestures. Show that special someone how much you care by taking the time to focus on these eight easy traits of positive communication.
Family Advocates Help in Times of Crisis
Margot, a Family Outreach Advocate, brings together her local nonprofit resources to help displaced families affected by an apartment fire in Santa Maria, California.
Family Service Agency Provides Social Services for Carpinteria Seniors
Family Service Agency (FSA) of Santa Barbara County announced that it is providing bilingual social services and case management for Carpinteria residents aged 60 or older, giving them the tools they need to cope and live safe, independent, and healthy lives.
Six Ways to Improve Your Mental Health During the COVID Lockdown
Family Service Agency (FSA) wants to remind you that there are ways you can boost your frame of mind, even during the stay-at-home order. FSA is providing telehealth counseling for people of all ages during the pandemic.
COVID-19 Scams Target Seniors
Unfortunately, millions of elderly Americans fall victim to some type of financial fraud. Scam artists are opportunists that exploit the fear, social isolation, and uncertainty fueled by the COVID-19 pandemic. It is an emotional time that makes us more vulnerable than...