
Support For The Kids is a 100% volunteer-run 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the underprivileged children and families throughout Ventura County. Since its founding in 1994, the organization has operated on a simple but enduring belief: every child deserves the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their circumstances.
Founded by Lynda Miller, Support For The Kids began as a grassroots effort in her garage, driven by the conviction that meaningful change starts with neighbors helping neighbors. Over nearly three decades, Lynda built an organization rooted in compassion, integrity, and direct community service. What started with a handful of donations grew into a countywide network of volunteers and supporters who have helped thousands of children through educational assistance, emergency aid, holiday programs, and essential resources.
In 2021, Lynda entrusted the organization's future to long time volunteer, Cindy Niner and a dedicated volunteer Board, including Pam Moran and Kelsey Ong. Having volunteered with Support For The Kids for more than twenty years, Cindy has been instrumental in expanding its reach while preserving the values that have defined the organization since its beginning.
Our work is guided by the understanding that a child's ability to learn and thrive depends upon having their basic needs met. We partner closely with Ventura County Social Services and local school districts to identify children and families facing genuine hardship. This collaborative approach ensures that assistance reaches those who need it most, while allowing us to respond rapidly when emergencies arise.
Our primary mission is to help keep children in school by providing the essentials that many families struggle to afford. Throughout the year, we supply school districts in Santa Paula, Fillmore/Piru, Rio, and Oxnard with school supplies, classroom materials, clothing, and hygiene items for school closets and teachers' classrooms. We also provide emergency assistance for food, clothing, transportation, and other necessities when students or their families experience unexpected crises or traumatic family situations.
The holiday season is a cornerstone of our mission. Every Thanksgiving, we provide complete holiday meals to families who would otherwise go without. At Christmas, we help hundreds of children experience the joy and dignity of the season by providing new toys, books, games, sports equipment, blankets, warm clothing, and food. These gifts are more than presents—they remind children that they are seen, valued, and supported by their community.
For more than 30 years, Support For The Kids has remained entirely volunteer-powered, allowing every donation to make a direct and meaningful impact on the lives of local children. The dedication of our volunteers, donors, and community partners has enabled us to serve thousands of families throughout Ventura County. With their continued support, we will continue building on Lynda Miller's legacy—ensuring that every child has access to the resources, opportunities, and encouragement they need to learn, grow, and thrive.
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