Mothers’ Helpers: Helping Mothers this Holiday Season and Beyond

For the past 15 years, the nonprofit organization Mothers’ Helpers has supported low-income families in Santa Barbara county by providing them access to essential baby items. This holiday season, the organization is hosting a Christmas program that allows community sponsors to purchase and wrap gifts for selected families, bringing a bit of magic and cheer to their children. 

Robin Unander-La Berge, founder of Mothers’ Helpers, was inspired by a Facebook post to kickstart the organization. A parent had created a post desperately seeking a crib, but faced several unsuccessful attempts at finding one. Unander-La Berge realized there was a lack of existing resources in the community that could help parents, particularly those facing financial struggles, which led her to launch Mothers’ Helpers in 2009. Last year, the organization served over 565 families and is on track to surpass 500 this year. 

“We’re really excited to have been around for 15 years, it feels like the blink of an eye,” said Executive Director Michelle Erickson. “We absolutely would not be here without everyone from the community pitching in and giving us donations,” she adds. 

Erickson first got involved with Mothers’ Helpers in 2014 when she donated baby items for which she no longer had a use. She later served as a board member for eight years before stepping into her role as Executive Director in February 2023. “So many moms that we help express the interest in helping others,” she said. Erickson notes that Mothers’ Helpers has come to be a supportive community for mothers to not only pick up items they need, but to hold conversations about their children and families. “With more than 14% of Santa Barbara County residents living in poverty – and over 18% of children affected – our mission at Mothers’ Helpers is critical,” said Erickson.

Mothers’ Helpers welcomes a variety of donation items including diapers, clothing, blankets, bassinets, and more. Volunteers at the center help sort and store the goods, and also dedicate their time to coordinate drop-offs of these items. On average, the organization receives about 50 applications per month from low-income families seeking assistance. However, in November, over 90 applications were submitted, indicating a growing demand in the county. The organization plans to expand their reach to accommodate this demand. 

In an effort to help alleviate the financial strain that often comes with the holiday season and spending money on gifts, Mothers’ Helpers implemented the Christmas program to assist those selected families that have been helped throughout the year. Community members can choose to sponsor a family by directly making a donation or shopping for gifts that the children can unwrap on Christmas Day. 

Looking ahead, the organization is currently cultivating a plan to expand its reach. According to Erickson, about 60% of the families they serve are from North County. She hopes that the organization can soon expand their presence in that area as the demand for items increases. 

To learn more about Mothers’ Helpers or to make a donation, visit www.mothershelpers.org or contact Michelle Erickson at michelle@mothershelpers.org