Some Buellton students now have access to after-school activities at a classroom located in their apartment complex.
People’s Self-Help Housing opened a learning center at the Buellton Garden Apartments on Sept. 8, according to the organization. A maximum of 20 students from kindergarten to the eighth grade can head to the classroom after regular school hours.
“One of the biggest advantages is accessibility,” Chief Operating Officer Anna Miller said in an email interview with the Sun. “At Buellton Gardens, the school bus drops students off directly in front of the learning center, removing transportation and distance barriers for students and their families.”
Around 3:15 p.m., the first school bus arrives at the classroom, which closes at 6 p.m. Students have access to books, art supplies, Chromebooks, and guidance from an instructor through the nonprofit’s education division. Educators offer reading and math tutoring, arts and crafts, field trips, and career exploration activities.
The learning center is also open during the summer and portions of winter, spring, and Thanksgiving breaks, Miller added.
Serving the spectrum of elementary and middle schoolers catches students during crucial years for reading and math. The range of ages can also support personal development.
“It also allows students to remain connected to the program as they progress through elementary and middle school, providing greater consistency and continuity in their learning,” Miller said. “Having multiple grade levels together also creates opportunities for younger students to develop relationships with and learn from older students in their community.”
The nonprofit housing organization announced that this latest addition helps serve around 300 students annually at nine on-site schoolrooms. Buellton Garden Apartments began accepting pre-applications in January, and the 89 units are now move-in ready, according to the nonprofit’s Instagram page.
By giving families and parents direct access to educational services in their housing community, People’s Self-Help Housing intends to help students succeed inside and outside the classroom. When a student needs extra support, the teacher points families in the right direction.
“That combination of convenience, consistency, and relationship building can make it much easier for students to stay engaged and succeed academically,” Miller said.
Parents may also take advantage of classroom resources in addition to other on-site services.
“Our education program has also arranged English language classes and financial literacy workshops for adults when there is sufficient interest,” Miller said.
Since 1970, People’s Self-Help Housing has been providing homes and resources for farmworkers, seniors, veterans, low-income families, and those who experienced homelessness. The nonprofit serves the counties of Monterey, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura.
Children who attend elementary and middle school in the Buellton area may apply for the new program, but priority will be given to kids who live at Buellton Garden Apartments. For more information about enrollment, visit pshhc.org/education, or drop by in person at 10 McMurray Road in Buellton between 9:30 a.m. and 6 p.m.
This article appears in September 17 – September 24, 2026.
