In 1992, the Marin Interfaith Homeless Chaplaincy (MIHC) was founded to be “a spiritual presence on the streets of Marin County.” At first, this mission manifested as a ministry of presence; meeting people where they are, being an open ear and open heart through which people living with less could process their experiences. As the organization grew, the concept of “spiritual presence” expanded to include a vehicle for creative expression.

In 2001, MIHC published its first series of poetry books: “The Sacraments Flame” by Malcolm Jones; “Miracle” by Anna Ione; and “Strings of Light” by Bob King. The following year, MIHC reprinted all three titles, as well as a volume of poetry by Shurli Grant entitled “Rainbow.” In 2003, a second volume of poetry by Anna Ione — “Intense and Joyful Blue” — was published. In the same year MIHC brought out “Zebra Blues” by Shurli Grant. In 2004 an anthology of poems entitled “Homeless Dance” was published, and included work by a variety of poets and artists including Shurli Grant, Malcolm, Corkland and Anna Ione.

In 2003, MIHC acquired a storefront space on 2nd Street in San Rafael, which was converted into a sanctuary/art studio. Within the first nine months of its existence this space became a focus for creativity and artistic expression. Numerous artists generated watercolors, oil paintings, jewelry, sculpture, collage, and music.

In 2004, MIHC — in cooperation with Theresa and Johnny's Comfort Food in downtown San Rafael — held an art show where over 100 works were displayed and offered for sale. Unfortunately the drop-in space was not able to stay open after December of 2005, due to leasing, funding and staffing issues.

More recently, renamed as the Marin Interfaith Street Chaplaincy, the program's activities have been held under the umbrella of Community Action Marin (CAM). Under CAM, MISC has returned to a ministry wholly concerned with presence, allowing the Chaplain to focus on direct street-level interaction with the population in need.