Dr. Hildegard H. Balin Charitable Trust

About the Foundation Dr. Hildegard H. Balin was born November 7, 1900 in Koenigsberg, Germany. She practiced as a medical doctor in Germany until World War II. Her husband was a member of the underground and did not survive the war. They had no children. Following the war, Dr. Balin moved to Argentina, obtained her medical license, and practiced there for a time. Dr. Balin came to Santa Barbara in the early 1950’s, and was employed as a Registered Nurse at St. Francis Hospital from approximately 1962 until 1966. Dr. Balin’s devotion to her dog and constant companion, Tulli, inspired her interest in the welfare and care of dogs. Her experience as a medical doctor, as well as her professional life experiences, led to her interest in the welfare of the elderly, particularly those who are alone and further handicapped by poverty. She utilized her substantial business acumen, strong and unique personality, and untiring energy in building an estate with the intention of contributing that estate back to the county in which she lived. Dr. Balin died in Santa Barbara, California on January 14, 1996 at the age of 95. Since its inception in 1996, the foundation has awarded more than $3 million to eligible non-profit organizations in Santa Barbara County, California. Mission To promote the welfare and needs of the financially-at-risk and elderly residents, with particular consideration being given to their nutritional, legal, and medical needs and the welfare of dogs to include housing, nutrition, general care, and placement within suitable homes.