Local partners will be working to reduce the stigma around drug use on Wednesday.
International Overdose Awareness Day is on August 31st, and it’s being marked by the North Hastings Community Trust and Hastings Prince Edward Public Health. An event will be held in Belleville that will provide information about the stigma surrounding drug use, and the harm it creates. There will also be a memorial ceremony.
The North Hastings Community Trust will be live streaming the event in Belleville at 28 Station Street from 2-4 PM. They add the event will allow participants to connect with people with lived experience, get information from service providers, and provide naloxone kits and training.
Public Health says that over the last few years their region saw a spike in overdose deaths, with around 60 deaths between 2020 and 2021. They add that some 20 drug-related deaths have been suspected so far in 2022.
They add that drug poisoning can happen to anyone, including those who use prescription drugs incorrectly. They also warn about the risk of contaminated drugs in the region, and urge those who use drugs to take steps to do so as safely as possible.