About The Sanctuary

Funded through the Federal Department of Housing and Urban Development, state grants, foundations, corporations and individuals, The Sanctuary had its start in January 2000. A 10-unit apartment building houses homeless south suburban women with up to four children for six months to twelve months. During their stay, families are required to attend classes and individual sessions, set achievable goals and make progress toward those goals. All support services are provided on-site.

Residents and their children must follow a set of rules such as no alcohol or drugs on the premises and no visitors, in order to remain in good standing with the program. Upon completion of Sanctuary, graduates are assisted in finding new residences, working full-time and supporting their families independently.

Candidates for The Sanctuary must be referred by an entity or agency with which they have worked for at least one month. Candidates may not refer themselves. Typical referral sites include social service agencies, schools, faith communications, hospitals and government programs. Eligible families are residents of South Suburban Cook County during or prior to their homelessness.

South suburban social service agencies are partners in The Sanctuary; each lends its area of expertise to the program. South Suburban Family Shelter is the lead agency with expertise in domestic violence. Grand Prairie Services is a mental health provider. Substance abuse services are provided by the South Suburban Council on Alcohol and Substance Abuse. Aunt Martha's Youth Service provides health care services. Prairie State College assists with adult education and GED classes. Rich Township provides a food pantry and community services.