When a mother and father came to El Centro de Amistad’s Family Preservation program, they were navigating a difficult season. Raising two young children while managing mental health challenges, recovery from substance use, and financial pressures had left them with much to carry. They needed support—and a place where they could speak openly without feeling […]
For a family experiencing financial hardship, the holidays can be a difficult reminder of what they cannot afford. A Thanksgiving meal or gifts for their children may have to take a back seat to rent, utilities, groceries, and other necessities. That’s where your generosity can make a difference. n. Through El Centro de […]
The scent of a familiar meal, a favorite song, or a photograph can bring us closer to someone we miss. For many Latino families, remembering loved ones who have died is woven into everyday life through storytelling, prayer, food, and traditions passed from one generation to the next. Día de los Muertos offers a special […]
A Message from the Interim Executive Director As we enter the holiday season, I am reminded of the importance of gratitude, community, and the many ways we can make a difference in the lives of others. It is a time to appreciate the connections we share and recognize that some of the greatest gifts we […]
By: Natalie Santoyo, MS, LMFT, Infant & Early Childhood Mental Health Program Manager El Centro de Amistad (ECDA), we believe that fathers and father figures play an irreplaceable role in the earliest chapters of a child’s life. That belief took center stage on Saturday, June 13th, when ECDA partnered with the City of San Fernando […]
El Centro de Amistad is proud to announce the launch of the Mission Gang Reduction and Youth Development (GRYD) Prevention Program, beginning July 1, 2026. This new program expands our commitment to supporting children, youth, and families by providing prevention services that promote healthy development, strengthen family relationships, and increase protective factors that help youth […]
By: Natalie Santoyo, MS, LMFT At El Centro de Amistad (ECDA), we know that the earliest moments of a child’s life lay the foundation for lifelong health, connection, and resilience. That belief came to life during our recent community baby shower events, where families gathered to celebrate new beginnings, build meaningful connections, and access vital […]
By: Ruchika Puri, MA, LMFT Stephanie, a single mother of three school-aged boys, was referred to El Centro de Amistad through the CalWORKs GAIN program during a particularly challenging time in her life. At intake, she shared that over the past year, she had been struggling to manage daily responsibilities and was seeking support to […]
As the holidays approach, El Centro de Amistad (ECDA) is once again launching our annual Thanksgiving Food Basket & Gift Card Drive and Adopt-A-Family Christmas Program. These two campaigns are at the heart of our mission to support families in need throughout the San Fernando Valley, bringing warmth, hope, and joy to those facing financial […]
Through every swing, THANK YOU to everyone who helped make El Centro de Amistad’s inaugural Swing for Hope Golf Tournament such a success! As our very first tournament, this milestone event was only possible because of the dedication of our amazing players and the generosity of our sponsors. Together, we raised vital funds that […]
