Description
Rest Stop was an emotional support center for persons living with AIDS/ARC/HIV in San Francisco, California. It opened in
1987 and closed in 1992. The collection contains the Rest Stop newsletter, photographs, subject files, newspaper clippings,
a small amount of correspondence, and three videotapes.
Background
Rest Stop was an emotional support center for persons living with AIDS/ARC/HIV. Located at 134 Church Street, San Francisco,
the center opened in 1987 and closed in 1992. Rest Stop was the brainchild of the Reverend James E. Sandmire, the pastor
of Golden Gate Metroplitan Community Church, in response to the needs experienced by his son Dean. It was initially started
to provide a clean, comfortable home-like facility that would be a "rest stop" for those affected by AIDS/ARC/HIV between
appointments or errands. The needs of clients grew and additional support was obtained from local businesses, professional
groups and associations. Due to the rejection, discrimination and self-esteem issues for its clients, Rest Stop fostered a
program of positive, supportive social interaction. Paul Peder Steindal was a former co-director.
Restrictions
All requests for permission to publish or quote from manuscripts must be submitted in writing to the City Archivist. Permission
for publication is given on behalf of the San Francisco Public Library as the owner of the physical items.
Availability
The collection is available for use during San Francisco History Center hours, with photographs available during Photo Desk
hours. Collections that are stored offsite should be requested 48 hours in advance.