Chimpanzee and monkey sanctuaries provide lifetime care for animals unsuitable for release, but sanctuary quality varies enormously — making welfare assessment essential for donors and supporters.
Primate sanctuaries perform essential welfare work for animals who cannot be released and cannot live in acceptable conditions elsewhere — but the term "sanctuary" carries no legal protection and can be claimed by facilities that provide inadequate care. Genuine welfare-positive sanctuaries prioritize large outdoor spaces, appropriate social groupings, enrichment that matches primate cognitive complexity, and veterinary care. The permanent commitment to animals that may live 50+ years creates an enormous, underfunded obligation. Informed giving — supporting only accredited sanctuaries with transparent welfare reporting — is critical for directing resources to genuine welfare benefit rather than feel-good marketing.