The goal of Sanctuary is to help youth deal with their immediate crisis and to intervene with their families in an attempt to get them back to their homes. In some cases, Sanctuary can serve as a respite for families who need a cooling off period before addressing a major family conflict. This service prevents many teens from running away and allows parents the time to reflect on their response to a family crisis.

When a teen arrives, a staff member calls his or her parents to let them know that their child is safe; however, parents may not be given the location of the shelter to protect the safety of the child. Youth are given food, medical care, clothing, and a warm bed to sleep in. Counselors assess the youngster’s situation and, working in partnership with youth, form a plan of action focused on resolving the problems that led the youth to leave home and seek shelter. That plan incorporates family, school, or other related agencies or institutions. Learn more about our work with families.

When possible, youth return to their home school during the day, using the Westchester bus system. If that is not possible or prudent, youth receive education in the district that serves the shelter.