PROGRAMS & SERVICES

FAMILY SERVICES CENTER

Our Family Services Center, lovingly referred to as the “Free Store,” is the heartbeat of our effort to serve our residents. We nourish them – with the best groceries we can possibly secure – and clothe them – only with new and like-new clothing and footwear that we’d want to wear ourselves.

HOLIDAY TOYS & GIFTS

Supporting the Santa Barbara community during the holiday season fills our hearts in ways that are hard to describe. The outpouring of love and generosity is overwhelming as brand-new toys arrive from individuals, groups, corporations, Toys for Tots, the U.S. Marine Corps, CHP Offices, and City & County Fire Stations. Together, we work hand in hand to bring joy and warmth to local children and their families. It’s more than just giving toys—it’s about spreading hope and making the holidays truly magical for those who need it most. This united effort lights up the season for everyone involved.

BACK-TO-SCHOOL

In August, the Back-to-School Shoppe comes alive, just when families need it most. With the financial burden of school shopping weighing heavy, we step in to provide relief. Children and their families walk through our doors excited to pick out brand-new backpacks, school supplies, fresh clothes, and stylish shoes—everything they need to feel confident and prepared for the school year ahead. It’s more than just supplies; it’s about giving kids the tools and the boost they need to succeed from day one.

SENIORS HELPING SENIORS AND KIDS

Our long-time senior volunteers are nothing short of angels and miracle workers! Hundreds of them work throughout the year – knitting, sewing, quilting, painting, woodworking, and assembling – to bring warmth and joy to our most vulnerable residents.

JOB SMART

Provide young adults, unemployed residents, and individuals living with disabilities with the occupational training and work experience required to find gainful employment in a competitive job market. Participants have the opportunity to select an interview outfit which includes shoes and undergarments. And, referral to resume development assistance. For more information contact Priscilla Hernandez at 805-979-9494.

TRANSITIONAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (TAP)

TAP provides immediate vital resources to help financially vulnerable residents facing a crisis such as natural disasters, sudden job loss, death in the family and a family impacted by unexpected health implications. In addition to distributing food, clothing, and personal-care items, clients can come to the Unity Shoppe’s Transitional Assistance Shop (a “one-stop shop”) for items such as home goods like furniture, dishes, linens and small appliances. For more information contact Priscilla Hernandez at 805-979-9494.

UNITY GIFT & THRIFT

Located at 1209 State Street, Unity Gift & Thrift Shoppe is Santa Barbara’s premier thrift store, offering a place to shop with purpose! Every dollar spent at the Thrift Shoppe directly supports programs and services offered at the Client Services Center.