PORT ST. LUCIE — A major step forward for the Treasure Coast LGBTQ community and its allies is underway, as local mental health nonprofit RiteLife has gifted a dedicated, permanent space to the Sanctuary of the Treasure Coast, paving the way for the organization’s first brick-and-mortar location in St. Lucie County.
Representatives from RiteLife, a mental health and recovery nonprofit serving the tri-county area, said the donation reflects its commitment to expanding access to supportive, community-based services.
The gifted space offers the Sanctuary an opportunity to establish a stable home after years of operating without a permanent location.
That progress has not come without challenges.
Shortly after the space was donated, a leak in the building caused extensive damage to approximately 6,000 square feet of flooring, requiring its removal.
RiteLife founder and CEO Barbara Moody said efforts are currently underway to secure donations of materials and financial support to replace the damaged flooring so the space can be fully utilized.
According to Sanctuary of the Treasure Coast Board President PJ Savage, the organization has long relied on temporary venues and community partnerships to host meetings, programs, and events.
With over 3,000 members, the Sanctuary has played a central role in celebrating LGBTQ culture, visibilit, and identity throughout the region.
The new location represents a significant milestone, offering a stable, safe, and welcoming environment where its mission can grow year-round.
The donated space is located near the intersection of U.S. 1 and Prima Vista Boulevard, a central and easily accessible area of Port St. Lucie.
Leaders from both organizations say the location will allow the Sanctuary to expand programming, strengthen community connections, and provide a consistent place for education, outreach, and support.
RiteLife’s decision to gift the space aligns with its broader mission of promoting mental health, recovery, and overall well-being.
By partnering with the Sanctuary, RiteLife aims to help address service gaps often experienced by LGBTQ individuals, particularly in areas of mental health and community belonging.
Once fully operational, the Sanctuary plans to host support groups, educational workshops, social gatherings, and planning efforts for Treasure Coast Pride Fest, one of the region’s largest LGBTQ celebrations.
Community members have welcomed the announcement, viewing the partnership as a meaningful step toward greater inclusivity and visibility on the Treasure Coast.
More information about these organizations and ways to get involved with this restoration project can be found at https://www.thesanctuaryofthetreasurecoast.org/ or https://ritelifeservices.org/.