The Russell Housing Centre

If one is looking for a safe, secure shelter where one has access to resources and dedicated assistance from experienced and well-connected staff; then one cannot find more ideal circumstances than being a guest/client at The Russel.Overall, I cannot thank the staff and management enough for their help and care, especially their patience and understanding of my changing circumstances and plans. Moreover, they understood these changes and adapted and worked with me until I was able to find a more suitable, long-term living arrangement and stable employment. In this sense, it was somewhat of an empowering experience.Overall, I met some good fellow guests/clients during my stay, though there were a few of the usual bad apples carrying an unwarranted sense of self-entitlement, who created their own realities of feeling like they were being treated like juveniles.Generally, the staff are excellent at spotting the bad weeds, but as most anywhere, a few bad weeds will persist. Regardless, it's best to stay focused on one's own business, not meddle in the affairs of others, and allow the Russel to to do its good work.I'll always be grateful and I wish the best for all staff and to all guests/clients.

Well I came in from out of town, and they told me where I could get a mat. The next day which was Christmas morning they gave me brunch, and allowed me to join them for Turkey dinner that night. A special thanks to Jodie, who made it happen

I live on the tenant side here, and yes they are sort of good staff if they would only stop changing them so offten.

If I was ever homeless, this is the place that I would want to be at. The building itself is old af but Lookout has remodeled it and the inside is fantastic. These shelter guests are living large.

I was homeless for almost 2 years bounced from shelter to shelter until I arrived at the Russel homeless shelter. The staff treated me with respect and it was from here I was finally homed. Thank you Russel staff! You saved my life and the life of my dog Keiko! Outreach worker JODY was paramount in giving me strength, courage, and the ability to find a pet friendly home! Thank you for the new life Jody!

Stopped by to have my bc housing application faxed. Doors locked for Covid-19 instructions on door. Workers were wearing masks.

The Russell is more than a homeless shelter, it is also approximately 30 single room occupancy rental units available.The building also houses the Seniors Services Society.

Love the look out people that help me every month. Thanks Macheal at look outLori Howden...

I share custody of a cat with one of their tenants using the shelter. But he was recently evicted from there and now the staff 'doesn't know' where the cat ended up. I have picked up our cat a couple times so they are aware of our agreement, and they should know who I am.They must feel pretty proud of themselves to take advantage of the homeless.I will keep on contacting them till someone finds out what happened him. Cats don't just disappear..... and if by chance you are the one that has my 'Shadow' just know I won't give up that easy. I'm coming for my cat!!!

Have been a guest at their emergency shelter in the past. They also provide permanent low income / welfare housing. This place is amazing. I have never been at a shelter before but I could tell it was above and beyond what you would imagine from a shelter. The staff are diverse (they have many staff, some are volunteer and some are professionals in health care, counselling, etc) and are very friendly and welcoming, and above all else very respectful. If you just need a place to sleep for a night, or a week or more, then you can have that, but if you choose to get help with drug addiction or employment barriers or anything they have dedicated and knowledgeable people there who truly care about their clients and their work. But I can't stress how they respect your choice, they won't pressure you to do group sessions or get treatment for a drug issue etc. Everyone is welcome as long as you don't cause problems and their rules are simple and logical (ie, based around respect and safety rather than arbitrary nuances and protocols).The lookout society is a very fitting name for this service! They truly are looking out for those who feel neglected and ignored by our society and govt. If you ever are in a tough spot I want to tell you from personal experience that there is help out there and it's a lot more than doctors and prescriptions and counselling! Sometimes all it takes is to have someone to talk to and be listened to to realize that you have a lot more power and control in your life than you realize! That is what lookout did for me and I am forever grateful, thank you look out society you've helped _me_ change my lookout on life!