Mobile Access Project(MAP Van)

The MAP Van makes more than 1,400 connections with women and gender diverse sex workers every month. Read the feedback from any of the participants who have accessed the Mobile Access Project (MAP) Van, and you will understand the importance of this service.

“Without the MAP van I probably wouldn’t be alive anymore.“

— MAP Van Participant

“I was walking home one night and the van stopped to give me a cup of coffee. I came in for a while, and I didn’t tell them but I was feeling very suicidal and I didn’t have any numbers for crisis lines or anyone to talk to. If it wasn’t for the van I don’t know if I would still be here.”

— MAP Van Participant

The MAP Van provides outreach services to street-based sex workers throughout Vancouver from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m., every day of the week, every day of the year. Many participants work in areas of the city where there are few or no services open late at night. Many are extremely marginalized and often targeted.

Our staff drive throughout the city each day and night, making stops as requested by phone, text, or those waving the van down. We provide coffee, juice, water, snacks, and clothing in addition to essential harm reduction supplies such as condoms and clean needles. We refer participants to emergency shelters, health care services, and other supports as needed.

As with all WISH services, the MAP Van provides emotional support. It is staffed by cis and trans women, and gender diverse folks, many of whom have lived experience as sex workers and people who use drugs, and all of whom can provide caring and compassionate support. Participants at their most vulnerable know they can speak to someone, take a break, and feel cared for.

“You guys are my angels at night! Thank you so much for what you do.”

— MAP Van Participant

“The van saved my life many times.”

— MAP Van Participant

The MAP Van was born of a partnership between WISH and PACE Society in 2004. In 2015, thanks to the MAC AIDS Fund and a generous donation from the estate of Anne Langer, WISH purchased a new van.

Generously funded by:

• Province of BC (Victim Services & Crime Prevention)
• City of Vancouver
• Vancouver Coastal Health

New Daytime Shift generously funded by:

• Anonymous Donor
• The Government of Canada’s Emergency Community Support Fund and Vancouver Foundation
• Reaching Home