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The memories of childhood – receiving or giving gifts – when we learn early the blessing of giving is an easy, annual lesson via this time’s celebrations. Some of the warmer memories come from watching children experience the magic of the season of giving. Stories of generosity tied to our celebrations in the world are hundreds of generations old.

Dear Friends,

We hope that when this letter finds you, you and your family are well. This year has been filled with challenges for all of us. Our hearts and prayers are with all those who have lost a loved one as well as those that are ill and have been deeply affected by the pandemic. (To view PDF version of Annual Appeal, please click here.)

Now, don’t be scared away.

In October, there is a beginning to community traditions that carry all generations through the holidays together. I do believe these interactions generate more uplift than any other span of time within the year.  This year, of course, we have to plan ahead.

What a paradise we share, living in Santa Barbara County! Yes, even with what 2020 has brought to our doorsteps, I hope some reading this have been able to keep a pocketful of optimism. For now, let’s prepare to “turn the corner.” Just as many unhealthful, tense or uncertain days have come to us, the days of beauty are still here, and will continue.

Few of us, before this unique year, faced undefined days, questioning when we could next see a doctor in person, or were concerned over receiving needed medication via mail – for the majority of us, it just all worked fine. Our biggest takeaway from the lessons of this pandemic; successful living takes a community.

Santa Barbara County, CA, August 20, 2020 – In an effort to support dependent seniors through the pandemic, Community Partners in Caring has launched a county-wide effort to recruit and match volunteers with dependent older adults. The campaign began shortly after the shelter in place order was given, but because more and more older adults are coming forward, the need for volunteers continues to grow.

Feeling lonely and being isolated is bad for your health. Loneliness and social isolation are associated with higher rates of depression, a weakened immune system, heart disease, dementia, and early death.*

This holiday season, give the gift of independence

Happy Holidays! Thanks to community support, we will be celebrating 22 years of helping seniors and mildly disabled individuals access basic needs, such as the need for medical care, food, and human connection. (To view PDF version of Annual Appeal, please click here.)

As we age, circumstances in our lives often change. We
retire from a job, friends move away, or health issues
convince us to eliminate or restrict driving.

Historically, communities have always come together in response to a crisis. The fires and the mudslides that affected so many people in our county are great examples of how people pull together to help each other.