An event to mark International Overdose Awareness Day will take place tomorrow (August 28) in Williams Lake.
The event is open to everyone from 11 am to 3 pm in Boitanio Park that will begin with an opening prayer and drumming by Williams Lake First Nation.
Interior Health Regional Harm Reduction Coordinator, Alison Houweling said they will have guests speakers impacted by the toxic drug crisis along with Community Service members and Interior Health in attendance.
“It’s a time to bring communities together,” Houweling said, “to remember the lives we have lost, to support those still living with the impact of this crisis, and stand as allies in the work ahead. We feel it’s important to show those impacted by this that we care and their lives matter and they’re not alone.”
Houweling noted since 2016 the Cariboo-Chilcotin have lost 91 people.
“The impact of the toxic drug crisis in Williams Lake has disproportionately impacted men, and particularly men in the trades. It’s also the leading cause of unnatural death for youth and adults ages to to 59.”
Houweling noted that at this event people can learn about the services available to them, get trained on overdose response and where to get naloxone kits.
“As the crisis affects more and more people, I feel people are coming to these events wanting to know what they can do to help their loved ones. I those who come walk away with a sense of community and knowing that they are cared for, and knowing that the services are available for them,” Houweling said.
Something going on in the Cariboo you think people should know about?
Send us a news tip by emailing [email protected].
