Emergency Sanctuary

Program Temporarily Closed Through 2021

Our Emergency Sanctuary program, both in Pierce and King Counties, remains paused. After taking a hiatus from programming in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, aimed at ensuring the health and wellbeing of our community through mitigating the spread of COVID-19, we’re taking time to re-envision our Emergency Sanctuary program. Our goal during this pause is to ensure that any phased return of this program, whether during the COVID-19 pandemic or after, continues to be responsive to our evolving community need and is geared to serve those children and families who need it most. In August 2021, we made the decision to sell the house out of which our Pierce County Emergency Sanctuary operated, knowing we will be consolidating all programming in Pierce County on our Pierce County property (where our Pierce County office sits).

A New Year: Changes and Updates at Amara

Throughout the US, the pandemic has impacted the ability of nonprofit organizations like Amara to operate as planned. No matter who you are, we have all worked hard to mitigate the public health and economic impacts on our work and in our lives. At Amara, this has meant nothing less than working with our community, all of you, to continue to work toward wellbeing for children and families, while prioritizing the health and safety of our staff and volunteers as well.

Safety and Comfort in the Midst of Crisis

Since 2014, our Emergency Sanctuary program has cared for children first entering foster care, in two home-like settings, staffed with trauma-informed childcare specialists and volunteers, 24 hours/day, 7 days/week. When kids are suddenly removed from their homes by law enforcement or Child Protective Services, there is often no place for them to go. They may wait in police stations, or alone in waiting rooms, as social workers search for a safe home for them during this crisis.

The kids are scared. They don’t know what is happening or why. Siblings are often separated, or a child may end up moving to several different homes within just a few days. Amara’s Emergency Sanctuary program has provided an alternative for young children first entering foster care. Our Foster Care program will continue to find homes for children to ensure they are cared for quickly and compassionately.

Volunteer

We have a vision to create a just and equitable world where all people grow and thrive. To bring this vision to life, we need creative, passionate people who reflect the diversity of our communities. We actively seek volunteers who have personal experience with foster care and/or adoption as well as individuals from diverse backgrounds – including communities of color, the LGBTQ+ community, veterans, and people with disabilities.

Volunteer Opportunities

Get Involved

Our work would not be possible without our network of supporters who generously give their time, talent, and treasure. There are many ways you can make an impact and support kids in foster care, adoptees, and their families. Find the way that’s best for you!

View Opportunities