Street Outreach

We go out to meet people on their own turf, both offering and seeking the welcome, dignity and healing inherent in the community of God's Kingdom

We go out because Jesus has sent us, and because we expect to see and hear him through the street community. If we want to meet him in this way, we have to "show up".

We meet people on their own turf because we want to approach them as "servants", not as people of power.

We go out both offering (to others) and seeking (for ourselves) because we know we are as needy as anybody, and we can only truly receive these things together. Offering is a way of seeking.

We seek and offer welcome because the good news should go first to those who have been rejected.

We seek and offer dignity because people need to know they're respected and valued for who they are right here, right now.

We seek and offer healing because people don't have to stay in destructive situations or patterns God's agenda is transformation.

We are inviting people to journey with us (that is, in community) deeper into the Kingdom.

Sanctuary Street Outreach teams meet members of the community on their turf the streets and alleys where they exist. Often out late at night, the teams offer recognition and companionship to people who are often ignored or rejected by society. People recognize and expect them on a consistent basis. In addition to offering food and drink, some teams also provide basic health care as well as sleeping bags, coats, and socks.

The Street Outreach teams are small - usually only two people. Recognizing that many people on the street have experienced more hurt than help from well-meaning organizations, Sanctuary approaches outreach carefully. Without imposing a particular morality or theology, Sanctuary members aim to live their lives with the people of the community.

If you would like more information about STREET OUTREACH please contact Stephen Martin at 416-922-0628 x. 212.