New DTES MHSU Drop-in Centre announced

Earlier today, VCH-Vancouver Community officially announced Lookout Society as the selected service provider for a new Downtown Eastside (DTES) Mental Health and Substance Use Drop-in Centre. This announcement follows an extensive and thorough RFP process that was initiated last fall.

Lookout will work in partnership with Vancouver Community to implement a new drop-in model that will improve and expand on support services provided to the clients we serve in the DTES community, and provide stronger connections to the health care system.

“We look forward to working with Lookout in partnership as they provide improved drop-in services to our clients to support their better health and recovery,” says Laura Case, COO for Vancouver Community. “Lookout is an experienced and well-respected non-profit organization in the DTES community and has been a good partner with VCH in client services over the years.”

Shayne Williams, Lookout Society’s Executive Director, says, “Lookout is excited to be working in partnership with VCH on the new drop-in centre and model that will not only provide a safe place for people with mental health and addictions to come and hang out, it will also provide stronger connections to the health care system and services these community members need. We have been working in the DTES since 1971, walking alongside those who are marginalized in our community and look forward to this next step in continuing to fulfill our mandate towards helping those in need help themselves.”

Lookout currently operates the Livingroom Drop-in Centre under contract with VCH. This will become the location of the new MH&SU Drop-in Centre over the course of the next few months, following renovations and transition planning.

VCH-Vancouver is increasing and expanding services for DTES residents. The new MH&SU drop-in will be open 12 hours a day, seven days a week, providing more access to a broader range of services.

This contract replaces two existing drop-in service contracts that VCH has in the DTES, including one with Lookout and one with PHS, at a VCH-leased site, for the Drug Users Resource Centre (DURC).

As with Lookout, PHS has provided excellent service to clients over the years and continues to be a valued service provider in the DTES.

Vancouver Community, Lookout and PHS will work together to support the transition of clients and peers from DURC (and current LivingRoom drop-in) to the new location and service model at Lookout.

The drop-in centre will also assist in connecting clients with untreated substance use problems to a new walk-in service that Vancouver Community will be opening nearby in the fall of 2016, further enhancing services and support for our clients and those in need in the community.

These new services, along with many other initiatives underway, are part of the VCH DTES Second Generation Strategy, reflecting consultation with staff, clinicians, clients and the community.