The Sanctuary Women’s Stabilization & Recovery is a women-centred, residential recovery and stabilization program in Vancouver, BC operated by Union Gospel Mission (UGM). It supports women and mothers, including those with babies, whose alcohol or drug use and related life struggles have already begun affecting housing stability, work, family roles, or emotional wellbeing. This is a live-in environment where recovery work is built into everyday life with structure, immediate support, and wraparound care.
A Residential Setting to Slow Down Old Patterns
Women often arrive here when repeated attempts to manage substance use on their own haven’t held and the consequences are now showing up in the life they’re still living: unstable daily routines, strained relationships, or challenging parenting demands. The Sanctuary provides stabilization support that includes shelter, trauma-informed counselling, and a wraparound approach, helping women begin recovery with safety, consistency, and practical assistance.
Recovery Lived Through Structure, Skill-Building, and Support
The program has two phases: a stabilization phase that gives women space to regain strength and begin engaging with recovery, and a supportive recovery phase where residents live on site for about six to twelve months. In this residential setting, women participate in individual and group counselling, life-skills development, peer support, and practical routines that help build steadier habits. Community connections, shared responsibilities, and continuity of care reinforce accountability and personal insight.
Planning for Life Beyond the Residence
Beyond the core residential phase, The Sanctuary offers aftercare support, transitional housing opportunities, and connections to education, employment counselling, and childcare to help women carry the momentum of recovery into their everyday lives. These supports help bridge the gap between structured recovery life and real-world responsibilities.
For Women Ready to Live Recovery Every Day
This program is often used by women and mothers who recognize that substance use has already disrupted what matters, daily functioning, parenting roles, housing stability, and who need a sustained, supportive residential environment where recovery is lived through daily routines, community engagement, and trauma-informed support.
