Bear HUGS
The Bear HUGS program brings a simple yet meaningful gesture of compassion to those facing traumatic situations. Through established partnerships with hospitals, police and fire departments, and other local organizations, Community Friends of Santa Barbara™ provides comforting “Huggy Bears” to individuals in need. Introduced in 1988, the program has distributed more than 15,000 bears, each one helping to ease fear, offer reassurance, and remind recipients they are not alone. This initiative continues to reflect our mission of serving the community with care, dignity, and heart.
If you're part of an organization or program in need of Bear HUGS, please email us at BearHUGS@CFofSB.org.
Outreach
Community Friends of Santa Barbara™ includes an urgent response outreach program to offer immediate support in times of crises across Santa Barbara County and surrounding areas. Working in partnership with local agencies, it is aimed at assisting those most impacted. The goal of this program is to help meet critical needs such as clothing, hygiene, household essentials, and other resources through financial support of organizations best poised to meet those needs.
Each request is carefully considered and fulfilled to reflect our commitment as a compassionate and reliable presence in our community. Community Friends steps forward with kindness and purpose when neighbors need it most.
Community Share
Community Friends of Santa Barbara™ is proud to support fellow nonprofit organizations throughout Santa Barbara County through our Community Share program. When items donated to our thrift shop can’t be sold due to space limitations, or other resale restrictions, we ensure they are still put to good use by passing them along to trusted local partners. These items often meet important needs in our community, and we are honored to facilitate that connection.
Currently, we share resources with 23 nonprofit organizations, with no cap on the number of partners we can support. Every item shared through Community Share is another opportunity to uplift our neighbors and extend the impact of our mission. This program reflects our belief in the power of collaboration and our ongoing dedication to serving the community in compassionate, practical ways.
The Ukulele Lulus
Since 2003, the Ukulele Lulus have combined music, fun, and friendship to enrich the lives of others. This spirited group began as a few members learning to strum and sing together and has since grown into a beloved community outreach program of Community Friends of Santa Barbara™. With more than 30 members, the Ukulele Lulus volunteer their time and talent to perform at local senior centers, community gatherings, and care facilities, offering uplifting performances filled with energy, nostalgia, and opportunities to sing along. Their joyful presence brings smiles, sparks memories, and strengthens our connection as a community.
To book a Ukulele Lulus performance, please email us at UkuleleLulus@CFofSB.org.