Desert AIDS Project (D.A.P.) announced an alliance with Sanctuary Palm Springs (SPS), a transitional residential program providing housing and independent life skills for foster youth who are 18-to-21 years old. Residents will be able to turn to D.A.P. for their medical, dental, mental health, transgender care (both medical and psychological), HIV education, drug and alcohol counseling, employment counseling and pharmacy needs.

The alliance was showcased today at a ribbon cutting at the newly remodeled SPS residence in Palm Springs, with a keynote from Mayor Robert Moon, and congratulatory addresses by city councilmember Lisa Middleton, and D.A.P. chief executive officer David Brinkman.

“This is going to really help youth at risk to get on their feet,” said Mayor Moon. “We’re so grateful for our community supporting this.”

Several community members and supporters, including the Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce, local media, and volunteers stood in the front yard of the home for the ribbon cutting.

Embracing the humanitarian dedication of SPS founders LD Thompson and David Rothmiller, D.A.P.’s David Brinkman said the two organizations were perfect to unify for this endeavor.

“Together by leveraging all the goodness standing in this front yard today,” said David Brinkman, CEO, “we will help people actualize their full potential in life.”

Sanctuary Palm Springs is the creation of filmmakers and authors David Rothmiller and LD Thompson. Their goal is to provide LGBT teens in foster care a family home environment, a place of safety and stability. A caring and professional staff provide emotional support, in addition to an emphasis on education and the arts.

“Sanctuary Palm Springs is the first program of it’s kind,” said David Rothmiller, co-founder. “While providing housing, as well as education and employment opportunities to LGBT+ youth as they prepare to leave foster care, our home is a place of safety, where these kids can be who they were meant to be.”

Palm Springs interior designer Christopher Kennedy chose many of the fixtures, lighting and accessories for Sanctuary Palm Springs. All six bedrooms also are adorned with brand new MODE furniture, provided by Revivals Stores.

Learn more about Sanctuary Palm Springs
Learn more about Desert AIDS Project