Watari Counselling & Support Services is a grassroots, registered social-profit organization that has been serving Vancouver's Downtown Eastside (DTES) since 1986. This neighbourhood faces extreme and intersecting challenges such as material poverty, housing instability, chronic health issues, widespread food insecurity and a toxic drug poisoning crisis driven by factors like colonialism and capitalism.

Last year, we supported over 15,700 people – and as the costs of living continue to increase and we face challenges from cuts to healthcare, social housing, cultural and education programs, we anticipate needing to provide more critical support services this year. 

Watari is the Japanese word for 'small bridge' or "crossing" that represents our commitment to helping people to build bridges to healthier possibilities. 

About Watari Counselling & Support Services Society

Watari operates on the unceded, Traditional Territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) First Nations, yet we know that the impact of our work extends across many communities and Nations.

We are guided by Elders from our Host Nations and the complex needs of the community. Watari takes a holistic and inclusive approach to enhance well-being and social outcomes in the DTES. We are currently running 21 vital programs and services that include counselling, housing support, criminal justice system navigation, food security and community-driven cultural programs for Children, Youth, Adults, Elders/Seniors and families.  

Our focus is on helping those affected by multiple barriers to wellness, including mental illness, substance misuse, material poverty, houselessness/precarious housing and food insecurity. By offering personalized support, group workshops and events to foster commUNITY connections we are working to reduce systemic barriers, empower individuals and inspire communities to harness their own capacity for transformative change.

Watari wouldn’t be able to do the critical work we do without the dedication of our hardworking staff, volunteers and community partners, as well as the generosity of our funders and donors like you.

Join us in transforming lives and building a healthier, more connected commUNITY!

To contact us or to learn more about our programs and services, please visit our website at www.watari.ca