Physical Donations & WISH List

Thank you for donating new, or gently used, items to WISH. Your thoughtful support helps to make WISH happen!

Donors like you provide life-improving supplies, ensuring that clean clothing and toiletries are available for participants. Learn what items are most in need at WISH (and the items we are unable to accept) on the “wish list” below.

You can also help provide these essential items through WISH’s Item Donation Shop, or share your generosity through the type of financial donation that’s right for you.

If you are organizing a donation drive, we’d love to help! Get support from our fundraising team by emailing [E-Address: communications | wishdropincentre]

Where to Bring Your Items

Drop-off Location:

WISH Administration Office
334 Alexander Street
V6A 1C3

Temporary parking is available in the loading zone directly in front of the building. There are two entrances to WISH, the Office entrance is on the left. Please ring the silver buzzer when you arrive so we can help carry your donations into the building.

Drop-off Hours:

Monday to Thursday
11am – 2pm

If it’s not convenient for you to stop by during these times, please email us at [E-Address: info | wishdropincentre] or call 604-669-9474 and we can figure out a time that works for you.

Please do not leave any donations outside the building.

WISH List – items most in need right now

Clothing

  • Casual clothing (leggings, yoga pants, hoodies)
  • Club wear / sexy clothing
  • Bras, underwear (all sizes and styles)
  • Socks, stockings
  • Coats, raincoats
  • Shoes, boots
  • Pyjamas

Toiletries

  • Soap, body wash, shampoo, conditioner, lotion, razors, deodorant
  • Toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss
  • Makeup, all kinds
  • Single use mascara wands, cotton swabs/balls
  • Perfume
  • Hair products and appliances
  • Pregnancy test kits (in original packaging)
  • Menstrual products (tampons, pads, liners, cups)
  • Incontinence underwear

Accessories

  • Bags and purses
  • Backpacks
  • Jewellery
  • Wigs
  • Umbrellas

Other

  • Towels, face cloths
  • Blankets
  • Books
  • Unlocked smart phones with chargers

Items WISH can not accept

  • Kids or baby clothing
  • Furniture, appliances
  • Dishes, utensils, etc.
  • Decorations, knickknacks
  • Food storage/recyclable containers
  • Electronics including computers, monitors, TVs
  • Office supplies
  • Craft Supplies
  • CDs, DVDs
  • Musical Instruments

If you have an unusual item, or an unusual number of items, to donate please get in touch ahead of time to discuss your donation. You can connect with WISH by email [E-Address: info | wishdropincentre] or by calling 604-669-9474.

Frequently Asked Questions

How should I prepare my items for donations?

Our preferred way of receiving donations is in bags, as they are easier to handle and move than cardboard boxes. Please ensure all donations are clean.

I used to donate after hours. Why the change?

By establishing set donation hours, we can make sure someone from the office is on hand to greet you when you arrive. This practice also helps protect the safety and confidentiality of WISH participants, by organizing donation drop-offs outside of programming hours.

I have items that WISH is not currently accepting. Can I drop them off anyways?

We thank you for collecting these items, but we simply do not have storage for donations that are not currently in need (a donation of winter coats in August for example). If you are able to donate at another time, we thank you for that, and if not, please consider supporting another community organization.

Is there parking at the office?

Yes, there is street parking on both sides of Alexander Street. There is also a loading zone just outside of the WISH office that can be used for donations drop-off.

I have a large vehicle full of donations, how can I drop them off?

For large donations, please get in touch ahead of time so we can be ready to greet you and receive your generous gift! You can connect with WISH by email [E-Address: info | wishdropincentre] or by calling 604-669-9474.

I would like to organize a clothing drive. What is most needed?

Thank you! Your efforts to support street-based sex workers are most appreciated. Feel free to email [E-Address: info | wishdropincentre] or call 604-669-9474 to learn what items are most needed at the time of your donation drive. We’re also happy to help promote your event.

Can men drop-off donations?

Yes! Men are welcome to drop off donations.

Where do my donations go?

Your donations go directly to the cis and trans women, Two-Spirit, Non-Binary and gender diverse sex workers who access WISH programs and services. By giving new or gently used items to WISH, you are making an immediate impact in the community.

How do the donations get dispersed?

Clean towels and hygiene supplies are provided to participants using the shower and bathrooms at WISH. Clothing, shoes and other accessories are distributed to participants through WISH programs including the Shelter, InReach and MAP Van.

I don’t have any of these items, how else can I help?

You’re in luck! There are many ways to help make WISH happen…

You could fund a bulk purchase of critical supplies in the Item Donation Shop, become a monthly donor, organize your own fundraiser for WISH, or even sign up as a volunteer.

No matter what your next step is, make sure to stay in touch with WISH by signing up for our email newsletter.

Thank you for your interest in WISH, and for standing in solidarity with street-based sex workers. Your support is needed, and deeply appreciated.