Frequently Asked Questions
We want you to enter treatment feeling fully informed and aware of the commitment you are making to yourself. Please read on for answers to some common questions about the program. If you have other questions, please contact our Intake Counsellor by email or (604) 646-6856.

I want to seek treatment, but I don’t have a source of income.
We don’t want finances to be a barrier to your recovery! Please phone our Intake Counsellor to talk about your application. As of April 2021, we have a limited number of program spaces available at no cost. If you are eligible for social assistance (welfare), we can help you apply to the Ministry of Social Development & Poverty Reduction. On a case-by-case basis, we may have other funding resources to help you access treatment.

Do you accept clients taking opiate agonist therapy (OAT)? 
Yes, we welcome clients who have a stable prescription for methadone (up to 90mg), Methadose (up to 9mg), Suboxone (up to 24mg), or Kadian. Please discuss your prescription with the Intake Counsellor. We do not allow OAT tapers during the first 90 days of the program. OATs are delivered on-site daily, by our pharmacy provider.

Can I smoke cigarettes or vape nicotine products? 
Yes, smoking and vaping of nicotine products is allowed outside in designated smoking areas. Smoking cessation support is also available, for clients who are ready to stop smoking.

I have a disability or chronic health condition.
Admission is at the discretion of program staff, so please speak to our Intake Counsellor to discuss your specific needs. This will allow us to work together to explore possible accommodations or adaptations. Generally speaking, clients must be capable of participating fully and independently in our programs. Our facilities are wheelchair accessible.

Can I use my cell phone? What about a computer or TV?
You can use a cell phone while you are in program, but only outside of program hours. Computers and TVs are not permitted in treatment rooms – you’ll have access to TV in the lounges, and computers through the Learning Centre.

What should I bring with me?
Please note that all belongings need to fit into a small wardrobe. Storage is limited, so belongings that do not fit into the space provided will not be permitted. You will need:
– Your TB test results
– New prescriptions from your physician (not filled – just the paper script)
– Personal hygiene products
– Casual clothing, including closed-toe shoes and long pants (required for community meals)
– An alarm clock
– A list of all belongings you are bringing into the facility

Do not bring drug paraphernalia, weapons, large sums of money, valuables, or computers. Do not wear or bring clothing depicting/promoting drug or alcohol use, violence, sex, or inappropriate language.

What kind of amenities do your facilities have?
Treatment clients have access to a comfortable lounge with cable TV, a pool table, table tennis, and a library of novels, reference books, and board games. Our rooftop garden is also available after program hours.

Can I have visitors?
Yes! Please refer to our Family & Friends page for details on Visiting Hours. *Please note: due to COVID safety protocols, on-site visits are not currently permitted. We encourage you to plan safe outdoor visits that comply with the current Provincial Health Orders.*

You can visit with other clients in resident rooms before curfew, with the door open during the visit.

Can I bring prescription medications or over-the-counter medications with me?
Please discuss your circumstances with the Intake Counsellor. As a licensed community care facility, we follow strict protocols for medication management and administration. All prescriptions must be filled through our pharmacy provider. All medications, including over-the-counter items, are kept in our medication room. Medications are available during four schedule medication times each day.

I have hepatitis C. Can I start treating it while I’m in the program?
We will work with you and your medical team to determine an appropriate start time, on a case-by-case basis.

I have outstanding criminal charges.
Each situation is assessed individually. Clients must be able to fully participate in the program for the full 90 days of Phase 1. Please reach out to our Intake Counsellor to discuss your specific charges and anticipated timeline for court appearances.

I am on provincial probation.
We accept individuals on BC probation, at the discretion of program staff. Please note that we do not monitor conditions or report breaches for provincial probation.

How do I get to Harbour Light on public transit?
We are very centrally located for transit riders. Please use Translink’s trip planning tools to find your best route.
– Bus: the 3, 4, 7, 8, 14, 16, 19, 20, 22, 50, and many other buses stop within 1-3 blocks of Harbour Light.
– Canada Line, Skytrain, or Seabus: we are a 10 minute walk from Waterfront station.
– Skytrain: we are a 10 minute walk from Stadium-Chinatown, and Main Street-Science World stations.

Do I really have to do chores?
Yes, this is a requirement of our program. This is your home, and our shared community. We each play a role in keeping it tidy and comfortable.

Do I have to clean my room?
Your room should be kept clean and neat at all times. Rooms are inspected periodically, and may be inspected without notice. No food or drinks (other than water) are allowed in your room.