SANTA MARIA, CA - April 24, 2025 - Over 50 community leaders, school administrators, local government representatives, and concerned parents gathered on April 10th at the Santa Maria Public Library for Family Service Agency's (FSA) impactful luncheon focused on youth mental health. The event showcased FSA's comprehensive approach to supporting youth mental health across Santa Barbara County and highlighted the organization's significant impact in the community.
"We all need help sometimes, and FSA is universal in their approach in that FSA serves the entire county and communities in which they live, meaning there is 'no wrong door' to access services for anyone in need," said Teressa Johnes, FSA board member, during her opening remarks. Johnes emphasized FSA's unique ability to serve individuals across the entire lifespan, from prenatal care to senior services for those in their golden years.
The event featured powerful presentations on the current state of youth mental health, both nationally and locally. Alarming statistics were shared, including that 49.5% of 5th graders report frequent sadness, and 14% of 11th graders report having serious thoughts of suicide. Speakers emphasized that trauma is a significant risk factor for nearly all mental health challenges but highlighted that positive interventions can make a crucial difference.
Carolyn Silva, LMFT, who oversees FSA's School-Based Therapy program in partnership with Santa Maria Bonita School District, shared the program's remarkable growth from serving 116 students last year to over 215 students currently. Silva highlighted that 153 of these families require assistance in Spanish or Mixteco, demonstrating FSA's commitment to culturally responsive care.
Silva shared a compelling case study of a young boy named Alan who overcame debilitating anxiety through FSA's services. "Alan's story is a powerful reminder of how anxiety can shape a young person's life but also how, with the right support, dedication, and gradual steps, healing and growth are possible," Silva noted. "His journey is one of many—one of over 215 just this year to be exact!"
Lieutenant Paul Van Meel of the Santa Maria Police Department provided a law enforcement perspective, emphasizing that early intervention in youth mental health pays dividends to the entire community by reducing crime and drug use and improving public safety for all. "The mental health of our youth is not just a concern; it is a responsibility we all share," concluded Silva. "As a community, we must continue to recognize the challenges our young people face and take action to ensure they receive the support they need."
The event was made possible by the generous support of sponsors and supporters including Good Farms; Dignity Health; ATSU; Judy Nishimori; Sanger, Hanley, Sanger, & Avila; Kia Santa Maria; Community Bank of Santa Maria; Patty Herrera; Robert Janeway; Teressa Johnes; Field to Table Catering; and MDL Events.
FSA plans to host additional community education events throughout the year. The next event, “Community in Bloom: Our Collective Role in Improving Youth Mental Wellness,” is planned for May 8th at the Faulkner Gallery at the Santa Barbara Public Library. For more information, visit https://give.fsacares.org/CommunityInBloomMay2025. To host an event for your organization, call Arcelia Sención at 805.433.5921.
About Family Service Agency
Family Service Agency of Santa Barbara County (FSA) is a nonprofit social service agency that has served the people of Santa Barbara County since 1899. FSA helps the community’s most vulnerable children, families, and seniors meet their basic needs while simultaneously addressing mental health needs. Through this holistic approach, FSA improves the strength and well-being of our community. All services are provided free or on a sliding fee/donation scale and no one is denied assistance because of an inability to pay. Visit fsacares.org or call (805) 842-5148 for more information.
