"At Sanctuary, we are becoming a healthy, welcoming community where people who are poor or excluded are particularly valued. This community is an expression of the good news embodied in Jesus Christ." - Mission Statement The most fundamental need of people on the street is something that most people take for granted; ­ a meaningful place in a healthy community, a sense of belonging. Without it, drug rehab, housing or employment programs have little effect. Without it, people remain trapped in a lifestyle that is difficult to escape. When people don't feel like they belong, they just can't seem to recover. For most people on the street, their experiences of community have been dysfunctional at best. Rather than simply duplicating social services, Sanctuary provides a unique, healthy community - a safe place. We say: "If you're willing to share your life with us, we'll share ours with you. We'll encourage you when you mess up, help you find direction when you're not sure which way to go, hold you when you're hurting, and help you discover, strengthen and focus your gifts and abilities. We're here for the long haul." It's not uncommon for people in the Sanctuary community to tell us, "You're the closest thing that I have to family."