Grey Bruce Public Health will be hosting a number of public gatherings to mark International Overdose Awareness Day on August 31.
The annual day is meant to highlight the ongoing dangers and shed light on the opioid crisis, including in Grey and Bruce counties. It is also to remember, without any stigma, those who have died from overdoses and stand with those who have lost loved ones.
Events will be held this year in Port Elgin, Owen Sound and Hanover. GBPH members will be at all the events, and Naloxone kits will be available to help prevent future overdose deaths. Kits are also available via Public Health, participating local pharmacies, and community partners.
Events this year include:
A Speakers and Breakfast BBQ from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Owen Sound Farmers’ Market, 88 8th St. E.;
Candlelit Vigil from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Coulter Parkette, 583 Green St., Port Elgin;
A Speakers and Candlelit Vigil from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Heritage Square Gazebo, 358 10th St., Hanover;
A Vigil & Full Moon Ceremony from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the M’Wikwedong Indigenous Friendship Centre, 1045 3rd Ave. W., Owen Sound.
“The undeniable truth is the opioid toxicity crisis spares no corner of our community. Grappling with the complexity and intricacies of this issue necessitates the united effort and collective determination of every facet of our society. The unity of purpose is indeed crucial,” says GBPH Physician Consultant Dr. Rim Zayed.
“International Overdose Awareness Day and associated events in Grey-Bruce are important opportunities to raise awareness of the crisis and spark vital conversations about preventive interventions surrounding substance use, harm reduction, and strategies that can effectively curtail opioid-related deaths," Dr. Zayed continued. "In embracing this day with compassion and understanding, we move closer to the shared goal of safeguarding lives and fostering a future free from the devastating impact of opioid-related harms.”
