Sanctum 1.5

Sanctum 1.5 is a unique transitional care home in Saskatchewan that supports pregnant women who inject drugs, are living with HIV, or are at high risk of infant apprehension at birth. Operating since 2018, it offers a safe, nurturing environment with a full team including physicians, obstetricians, pediatricians, child protection workers, in-house trauma counselling, addiction and parenting supports, and culturally relevant care. The program emphasizes continuity of care for up to 12 months postpartum and access to community services, using “eat, sleep, console” strategies for newborns. Its impact is significant: 128 mothers (including twins) have graduated, with a 94% decrease in inadequate prenatal care, a 371% increase in stable prenatal care, 68 children reunited with their mothers, 74% of participants retaining custody post-program, and no babies born with HIV. By addressing critical gaps in the healthcare system with a holistic, trauma-informed approach, Sanctum 1.5 improves outcomes for both mothers and infants in a non-judgmental, supportive setting.