Abstract: . . .  WISH, its clients, the Police and representatives of neighbouring residents and business people. This site at 334 Alexander is owned by the City and used as the Police Evidence Warehouse. However, the lower floor of the building may not be available for several years. This report recommends the site be leased to WISH for the Wellness Centre, subject to development approvals and develop of an alternative location for some of the evidence currently stored in the building. It also proposes that staff work with the Police, WISH and other community partners and report back on a campaign of “Safety for All”. . . .
. . .  Page 6 WISH Facility 6 Strathcona School and was met with significant community opposition. In an effort to ensure more positive ongoing relations with the community, WISH agreed not to pursue this option and renewed its efforts to secure another site. Proposed Facility at 334 Alexander Street The City-owned building at 334 Alexander meets all the locational criteria noted above. For WISH, this two-storey, 6000 square foot building is ideal and can be renovated to reflect the needs of the organization. In addition, the site has a fenced, outdoor space at the rear where women can be outside in . . .
. . .  the alternative Police evidence warehouse options and costs. If possible, a longer term solution will be identified to avoid the costs of a temporary relocation to accommodate WISH. Funding for this and other capital work related to Police Facilities was provided in the 2003 – 2005 and 2006 – 2008 Capital Plans. SOCIAL IMPLICATIONS Women work in survival sex as a result of inter-related social problems including poverty, abuse, family breakdown, low literacy, sexual exploitation, homelessness, racial discrimination and more. By the time a woman finds herself working on the street, she has experienced . . .
. . .  SUMMARY This report recommends Council approval for a series of actions to help relocate the WISH Wellness Centre from the First United Church to 334 Alexander Street, so it can expand services for women working in survival sex in the Downtown Eastside (DTES). 334 Alexander is a City-owned capital asset which currently serves as a portion of the Vancouver Police Evidence Warehouse. An extensive process was undertaken by staff, in consultation with WISH, the Police and community stakeholders, to seek a location for this facility so that it could serve approximately 200 survival sex workers, more . . .
. . .  from the space it has outgrown at First United Church. After a considerable search by WISH, community partners and City staff, only one site has been identified that meets the requirements of WISH, its clients, the Police and representatives of neighbouring residents and business people. This site at 334 Alexander is owned by the City and used as the Police Evidence Warehouse. However, the lower floor of the building may not be available for several years. This report recommends the site be leased to WISH for the Wellness Centre, subject to development approvals and develop of an alternative location . . .
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