History
Angels Bearing Gifts was formed in 2001 by Evelynn Smith, a local Santa Barbara therapist who has a daughter with developmental disabilities. While working with Unresolved Grief groups for individuals with special needs, Evelynn recognized that a majority of the individuals were alone or had little supportive families due to death or abandonment. Holidays and birthdays went by without celebration or even acknowledgement, which contributed to the loss and sadness they were experiencing. There was no one to depend on year after year like they had remembered from the past.
During 2001's holiday season, Evelynn and her daughter anonymously delivered presents for nine individuals who had made wish lists.
By 2004, Angels Bearing Gifts had become an official non-profit corporation, with its clear mission to serve those in the community who have little to no supportive families.
By 2007, Angels had grown to serve 170 individuals. Over 200 volunteers regularly help provide the gifts, the wrapping, and the deliveries. Board members contribute donations and gifts, and also volunteer their hours. Others "adopt" individuals each year.