A non-profit group based out of Bothwell is getting more financial help from the federal government to combat substance abuse and save lives.
On Wednesday, the federal government announced $40 million to continue supporting people who use substances across Canada.
One of the projects getting funded by the Substance Use and Addictions Program (SAUP) is the Thunderbird Partnership Foundation, which has its head office in Bothwell and focuses on responding to methamphetamines in First Nations communities. Just over $638,000 has been set aside for the project to fund resources, such as community toolkits on the impacts of stimulants, including methamphetamine, on First Nations people. It's set to wrap up at the end of March 2024.
"This project will disseminate culturally relevant and appropriate resources, such as the use and integration of healing circles and Elders, to support First Nations communities in addressing the harms of methamphetamine use," wrote the government of Canada.
The government said the funding will allow innovative community-led projects to continue serving the many communities and people who need them. The funding will also provide support to those disproportionately affected by problematic substance use or who face barriers accessing services, including women, youth, young and middle-aged men, Indigenous Peoples, people experiencing chronic pain, 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, and people at increased risk of substance-related poisoning and overdose.
The latest data on substance use related harms show that 7,560 people died due to opioid overdose-related deaths across Canada in 2021 and the Government of Canada said it is committed to ensuring that all Canadians have access to the life-saving substance use services and supports they need.
“Drug overdose in Canada has spiked during the COVID-19 pandemic and with the increasingly toxic drug supply. Recent data shows historic opioid overdose-related deaths across Canada in 2021. Too many lives have been lost to this crisis, leaving too many families and friends to grieve," said Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health Carolyn Bennett.
Bennett thanks all of the organizations receiving funding for their dedication in decreasing substance use harms, preventing overdose, increasing safer supply initiatives, and reducing stigma.
