Geometric pattern of mountains

Supervised consumption and overdose prevention sites are safe spaces where teams of trained staff monitor people who use illicit drugs while they use to help prevent and recover from overdoses.

Supervised Consumption Sites (SCS) legally operate through federal exemptions under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. Insite, Dr. Peter Centre and Hope to Health operate SCS in the VCH region.

Overdose Prevention Sites (OPS) operate legally through a Provincial Ministerial Order related to the public health overdose emergency. Within the VCH region, there are 12 OPS serving different communities.

Both SCSs and OPSs are beneficial for people who use drugs and the community because they:

  • Help save lives by responding to overdoses quickly.
  • Help prevent the transmission of infectious diseases.
  • Connect people to health services, including primary care, mental health and substance use treatment.
  • Bring stability to the community by improving public order and reducing consumption taking place on the street.

How to access

  • Drop in

    Drop in during regular hours to access our services.

Hours of operation

Currently closed
  • Monday:   9:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
  • Tuesday:   9:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
  • Wednesday:   9:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
  • Thursday:   9:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
  • Friday:   9:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
  • Saturday:   9:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
  • Sunday:   9:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Clients are accepted 30 minutes before closing time.

Staff supervise and monitor clients for signs and symptoms of an overdose at five booths, teaching clients safer drug use practices and referring clients to other health care services such as substance use treatment and counselling. Clients can use substances via injection, snorting or swallowing.

VCH provides clinical support and harm reduction supplies, while Lookout Housing and Health Society runs the site. The facility offers a safe space for clients to learn life skills such as vocational training, nutrition and harm reduction and access to psychosocial rehabilitation programs. Learn more about supervised consumption sites.

Powell Street Getaway

Offers a variety of programs to encourage people with mental health and substance use challenges to participate in social and life skills development for better health outcomes. Services include healthy meals and snacks, supervised consumption site, food and clothing, advocacy, and social activities.

Supervised Consumption & Overdose Prevention Sites

Supervised consumption and overdose prevention sites are safe spaces where teams of trained staff monitor people who use illicit drugs while they use to help prevent and recover from overdoses.