WISH’s Drop-In program is temporarily closed.
Recent program changes were first announced here.
You can find the latest updates on this page. The information below was posted on March 11, 2025.
Thank you for staying informed on what’s happening at WISH, your concern is deeply appreciated.
Status of the Drop-In Centre
Bathroom renovations began February 8. These much-needed repairs will address structural issues, enhance privacy, and improve safety for participants.
The Drop-In closure has been extended beyond these scheduled repairs due to financial constraints.
We are grateful to report that conversations with provincial funders are going well, and we are confident that the Drop-In will reopen. Unfortunately we do not have a confirmed timeline, yet.
Once the Drop-In reopens, it will offer services, programming and a community space for active sex workers. This is part of our commitment to recentring women and gender diverse street-based sex workers in the DTES.
A heartfelt thank you to the WISH funders and individual donors who have stepped forward with critical emergency funding during this time. Your generosity is making a real difference, and we are deeply grateful for your continued support.
We look forward to sharing more updates with you soon!
Current supports for participants
Details also listed in the March WISH events calendar.
Additional community resources are listed in the WISH Daytime Resource Guide and in the Help in the Downtown Eastside resource guide published by Carnegie Community Centre.
Donation Table
On Friday mornings from 9:30am-11:30am, WISH participants can pick up clothing and other donated items at the front entrance to the Drop-In centre on Alexander Street. InReach workers are also available for drop-in appointments for participants at this time.
InReach
The InReach team provides individualized one-to-one support, including assistance with housing. Connect with InReach for referrals to WISH programs as well as external services and partner organizations.
MAP Van
Night shift runs 11pm-5am. Provides referrals, food/drinks, harm reduction supplies, clothing, emotional support and more. Distributes copies of the weekly Red Light Alert.
Shelter
Housing 20 residents and providing 3 crash beds, with food service including 3 meals and 4 snacks daily. Bed referrals: 604-558-4031. Other inquiries: 604-669-9474.
Indigenous Health & Safety Program
Reclaiming culture as a method of wellness and change, IHSP facilitates personal growth. The current cohort began in January.
Calming Art Circle
Recently announced IHSP Pilot Project: Wednesdays from 11:30am-1:30pm until March 26. Art supplies, self-regulation activities and discussion, and snacks. Open to 10 participants each week.
Sex Worker Circle
Cross cultural and sex worker focused activities Mondays and Wednesdays from 2-4pm. Open to all WISH participants. Presented in partnership with Kilala Lelum.
Kilala Lelum Mobile Clinic
The mobile clinic stops by WISH every Friday, providing WISH participants drop-in access to medical care. Look for the clinic on Friday afternoons from 2-4pm.
Red Light Alert
Bad Dates can be reported anonymously and are disseminated through the Red Light Alert to a large network of sex workers and service providers who are in contact with those working in the sex industry.
WISH Advisory Group (WAG)
WISH participants are invited to share their ideas, thoughts, questions or concerns about WISH. While the Drop-In Centre is closed, the WAG Meeting will be hosted in the WISH office (334 Alexander Street) instead. Happening on the second Monday each month.
Additional information for supporters
New donation drop-off hours
Please note that our donation drop-off hours have changed. WISH is grateful to accept donated items on Mondays and Wednesdays between 9am-4pm. Currently, the items most in need include towels, tampons and cloth shopping bags with handles.
Learn more here.
Now seeking monthly donors!
As we work to build greater financial stability in these uncertain times, we are encouraging annual WISH donors to become monthly WISH donors. By making a monthly pledge, you can help make sure women and gender diverse street-based sex workers have reliable access to essential services.
Click here to become a monthly donor.