The Sanctuary Project

A community warm space and foodbank in Kinson

Open Monday to Friday

The Sanctuary Project is a welcoming community space in the heart of Kinson, offering warmth, dignity, and practical support to anyone who walks through the door. Shaped by Christian values of love, hospitality, and care for neighbour, it is a place where people are received as they are and treated with respect.

Whether someone is facing a short-term crisis, ongoing financial pressure, or simply needs a place to sit and be with others, The Sanctuary offers space to pause, be welcomed, and find support.

What it is

The Sanctuary is a warm, comfortable space open throughout the working week, where people can sit, rest, talk, and recharge. Alongside this, the project runs a foodbank that provides nutritious, dignity-preserving food, shaped around household needs and supported by simple recipe ideas to help stretch budgets further.

It is also a place of connection. Visitors can access friendly, practical support, including signposting to benefits and housing advice, help with forms, cooking tips, or quiet conversation over a hot drink.

Why it matters

In times of rising costs and growing uncertainty, access to warmth, food, and community can no longer be taken for granted. Physical warmth matters, but so does emotional and relational warmth. The Sanctuary offers both.

Loneliness and anxiety often grow in silence. By opening a shared space where neighbours meet one another with kindness and patience, we seek to reflect the Christian calling to love our neighbour and to create spaces of welcome and peace.

Practical help meets immediate needs, while relationships, trust, and shared skills help build resilience and hope for the future.

What’s on offer

• A warm, welcoming space with comfortable seating, blankets, and free hot drinks

• Nutritious food parcels tailored to dietary needs and household size

• Light meals and shared lunches, eaten together around the table

• Friendly volunteers offering time, listening, and practical help

• Simple activities such as cook-and-share sessions, crafts, and information clinics

Who it’s for

The Sanctuary is open to anyone who feels the pressure of everyday life: families, older people, students, those on low incomes, people facing a sudden crisis, or anyone who simply needs company during the day.

How it works

We place dignity first. There is no judgement, no obligation, and no requirement to explain your circumstances. People are welcomed freely and treated with care and confidentiality.

The project is run by volunteers from St Andrew’s Church and the local community, supported by donations and partnerships. Faith shapes the way we welcome, serve, and listen, but participation does not require belief. The kettle is always on, and the door is open.

What makes it different

The Sanctuary is not simply a service, but a community rooted in hospitality. We believe that lasting change grows where practical provision meets genuine relationship, and where people are known, valued, and welcomed.

Our Christian faith quietly underpins what we do, expressed through kindness, generosity, and presence rather than pressure or persuasion.

How you can support the project

• Donate non-perishable food, toiletries, or household essentials

• Offer time as a volunteer or share practical skills

• Tell a neighbour or invite someone who may benefit

• Support the work through local partnerships or small grants

Come as you are.

The Sanctuary Project is a place of warmth, welcome, and care. No appointment, no proof required. Just come in, take a seat, and know that you are welcome here.