In 2006, Santa Barbara resident Meichelle Arntz saw the heartbreaking instability faced by children in foster care—babies and toddlers shuffled between homes, denied the chance to form secure bonds. Determined to create a better way, she founded Angels Foster Care of Santa Barbara County. Her vision was simple yet profound: provide the youngest children with safe, consistent homes until reunification or adoption. Nearly two decades later, Angels serves children not only in Santa Barbara, but also across the Santa Ynez Valley, Lompoc, and the Santa Maria Valley, offering hope and healing where it is needed most.
At the heart of Angels is a guiding principle: one child, one home, one consistent relationship. “Our goal is to give every child the love and stability they deserve…no matter how brief their stay,” says Elizabeth Moss, Angel’s Foster Care Communications and Development Manager. Traditional foster systems often involve multiple moves, but Angels ensures that once a placement is made, children remain with that family until permanency is reached. Because the first years of life are so critical, the organization focuses on children from birth to three, and sibling sets up to age five. Families are trained in trauma-informed care and supported by master’s level social workers, creating stability that fosters trust, emotional growth, and developmental milestones that might otherwise be lost.
What began as a single-focus foster family agency has grown to meet wider needs. Kinship placements support relatives who step in to care for children, preserving family connections. Teen pregnancy support and post-adoption services extend the mission beyond foster care, ensuring families remain supported through every stage. This evolution has built a comprehensive network for children and caregivers across the Central Coast.
The impact speaks volumes. Since 2006, more than 390 children have been placed in Angels’ homes. Many have reunited with birth parents, while others have been adopted into forever families. Each of those numbers represents a life reshaped by stability, compassion, and the chance to thrive.
Behind these successes are the families, staff, and volunteers who make Angels possible. Foster parents undergo rigorous screening and training and receive ongoing support every step of the way. Dedicated social workers, board members, and community volunteers uphold the highest standards of care, ensuring every child receives not just a home, but a true sanctuary.
Community support has always been vital to Angels’ mission. Fundraising events like the annual Al Fresco Luncheon, along with donations of baby gear, diapers, and local partnerships create a safety net for children who might otherwise fall through the cracks. Neighbors and friends alike help ensure that the youngest among us are given the stability they deserve.
However, the need continues. There are many ways to be part of the mission—by becoming a foster parent, donating funds or supplies, volunteering time, or simply sharing Angels’ story. As longtime supporter Leanne Schlinger reflects, “Nothing tugs at my heartstrings quite like children in foster care. It is my absolute honor and pleasure to support Angels Foster Care, who ensure that children in need are placed in the most nurturing, safe and loving homes possible. Angels Foster Care is truly a gem to our community and the children they serve.” Get involved at angelsfostercare.org