Activities 2020

We will be unveiling a community art project that is a memorial plaque to honor the lives we have lost to overdoses.

Naloxone training, harm reduction with drugs and alcohol, community resources and supports

– Remembering lives gone too soon
-Ending stigma & building capacity through
community outreach.
– Introducing harm reduction skills to
vulnerable populations.
– Providing culturally relevant, language-
specific overdose response &
prevention training.
– Naloxone Training
– Connecting families with mental health &
substance use resources.

We want to gather together to the people we have lost to bad drug policies. This will be a place to hold them up, remember the good times and educate others on just how big this problem actually is. Please come join us. Laugh, cry, whatever you want. This is the time and place for us all to share our losses.

Time: 6:00 to 8:00
8 to 9 is the Candlelight Vigil
Admission: Free with Free Pizza
6:00 Welcome and speakers – Free Pizza and Water
6:30 BTW Street Theatre Troupe
7:00 Screening of INDISPOSABLE: A Devised Theatre Exploration Into Brantford’s Opioid Epidemic
8:00 Candlelight Vigil Walk to Victoria Park

PLEASE NOTE THAT OUR PREVIOSLY POSTED EVENT
HAS BEEN MOVED

We heard about International Overdose Prevention Day recently through Holy Crap Podcast hosts Cinnamon and John. This 10-song Lederhosen Lucil (in her StarWarshosen) set will be dedicated to two of Krista’s friends – one who did and one who didn’t survive accidental overdoses back in the 90’s/early 2000’s. We are still learning about overdose prevention ourselves but wanted to sing in solidarity with other artists, musicians, teachers, parents – concerned citizens of the world – as part of International Overdose Prevention Day.

Raise awareness that lives do not need to be lost to overdose.

I have tied 35 purple ribbons on our trees in memory of our son who died of fentanyl poisoning.

Come join us and tell us about someone you lost to the opioid crisis. We are here to listen. Harm reduction supplies are also available.

On October 5th 2019, a fentanyl overdose took the life of my brother in-law Kyle Brown, who was taken from us way too soon. I have witnessed and continue to feel the grief and sorrow associated with this tragic loss. Therefore, this day holds a very special place in mine and my family’s heart! Now is the time to remember and the time to act! We teamed up with Multi Innovations and created T-shirts and hats to raise awareness and remember/honour Kyle. We raised $1370 and proceeds are being donated to KFLA Addictions and Mental Health Services in our hometown Kingston, ON. An organization that offers programs and services to those struggling from all type of mental illness and addictions. On August 31st we will wear our t-shirts and hats in hopes to spread awareness, speak openly/honestly about overdose/addiction, end the silence and proudly honour Kyle.

Drumming, BBQ, Sharing, rock painting

In association with the John Howard Society of Canada, Ensemble – located at 80 Weldon street, will be having a free BBQ, naloxone training, merch table, point of care testing for Hep C and a moment of silence to remember our lost loved ones from 11am-3pm.

On August 31, 2021, the City of Delta, in collaboration with Fraser Health Authority, Delta Police Department, Delta School District and Tsawwassen First Nation will launch the Share Your Story initiative. The initiative builds on the End the Stigma campaign, launched in 2020, and which aims to combat stigma around using drugs and promotes harm reduction supports and resources available in Delta. The second phase of the campaign will include a social media campaign with videos featuring a community advocate with a lived experience of using drugs telling his story and answering questions about the harm reduction approach to supporting those who use drugs. In addition, the City will launch a new platform for community members to share their stories and a poster with sites in Delta to check your drugs for safety and get a free naloxone kits.

Live Streamed Facebook Candlelight Vigil of Remembrance – A free online memorial event featuring words of remembrance and live music by local musician, Jill Cooper plus guest speakers, Leslie McBain (Moms Stop The Harm), Lisa Lapointe (BC Chief Coroner), Jennifer Charlesworth (Representative for Children and Youth) and Adam Olsen (Green Party MLA). Through words and song we will gather in loving remembrance of all those who died from overdose. Please light a candle in remembrance of your loved one and join us this evening.

This is a social media campaign to recognize the day on August 31 in coordination with our partner organizations on our Opioid Action work group.

Join regional leader from Moms Stop the Harm and harm reduction staff from Le Dispensaire for an afternoon of remembrance, education, and naloxone training. Live music and public speeches.

Journée de sensibilisation et de commémoration des personnes décédées par surdoses.

Kiosques d’information et de sensibilisation.

I am offering Mental Health First Training Sept 22&23, 2021 as well as October 2, 2021. I will be contributing 15% of each registered participant up until Sept 1, 2021.

In both Truro and Amherst the Northern Healthy Connections Society will have a display board promoting the Harm Reduction/Needle Exchange/Naloxone Training provided throughout the northern zone of Nova Scotia (Colchester-East Hants, Cumberland and Pictou Counties). This area is also home to three Indigenous/First Nations Communities (Millbrook, Sipkne’katik and Pictou Landing). Posters and information has been displayed and distributed in various locations such as local Pharmacies, Library, Public Health, Mental Health, etc. The display board and Naloxone Training will be set up at the Farmers’ Market in Amherst, Nova Scotia on Friday August 27th and at the Truro Farmers’ Market on Saturday August 28th. Board members will be joining the staff to assist. There will be copies of the material downloaded and printed related to overdoes and opioids, alcohol, stimulants, meth, etc available to anyone interested in acquiring educational and awareness material.

Candle Light Vigil
•Flameless candles provided
•Remembrance Board
•Speakers
•Performances

A day of awareness is needed to grieve the lives lost, celebrate the lives saved, and educate folks on the necessary call to action to end the overdose crisis.

People who use drugs are dying and need to be the centre of policies and strategies. This is done through Harm Reduction. Harm Reduction provides access to tools, support, information, and resources free of fear of stigma or retribution.

Join us as we take time to remember those we lost, learn how to take action, and collectively provide healing space as a community.

Memorial and Awareness Day Event
An opportunity to decorate flags and rocks in memory of those lost to overdose.
Free Naloxone training
Sidewalk Talks
Education about harm reduction
Sharing advocacy initiatives, including petition onsite for signing

Candlelight Vigil
Opportunity to share names and short stories about loved ones lost to overdose.
Community members are invited to submit requests to speak or have someone share on their behalf by completing this form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1XAcGys9eh3ZoLf1IGJycplLgPuVvSr6I_9fxzYT1HDk/edit

EKNPUD in collaboration with ANKORS are hosting activities in the Parking Lot of Community Connections Society of Southeast BC building at 209A 16 Avenue North. They include; Naloxone Training, Pop-up Inhalation OPS, Community Based Resources, food by Healthy Caring Meals, Drug Checking (at Ankors), Live Music, an Art Exhibit, a memorial to those we have lost, and much more. It is a day that is about healing, community, connection, and collaboration.

We will be tying purple ribbon bows to 28 trees in the Platzl in Kimberley to honour the 28 people who have died from accidental drug poisonings in the East Kootenay’s in the past 19 months. Each bow will have a heart attached to it with a fact about overdoses, and information for our event happening in Cranbrook on August 31, 2021.

Please join us as we remember lives lost in the overdose epidemic.

6:30 Welcome and Walk
7:30 Memorial Ceremony

Naloxone training, injectable and nasal. Harm reduction education. Family friendly space, snacks and refreshments, memorial crafts.
Please join us from 5:30 – 8:30 pm at the site of Mr. PG. for harm reduction education and to remember our loved ones lost to opioid poisonings. Candlelight vigil at dusk and Mr. PG will light up purple, with an IOAD flag to fly throughout the week.
We welcome the opportunity for our community to gather together to reduce the stigma that surrounds those who use substances, to honour our loved ones who lost their fight, and to acknowledge the grief of the families left behind.

Supportive listening and memorial table
Naloxone training
Food table
Resources and partnership tables

Mayor John Tory has proclaimed August 31st Overdose Awareness Day in Toronto, ON, CANADA
• 11:00am, AUGUST 31ST – Mayor John Tory will raise the IOAD FLAG at TORONTO CITY HALL, 100 Queen St. W. Toronto.
View the flag rising from Nathan Phillips Square. Bring a photo of your loved one as we remember them. (Arrive 10:45am)
• 8pm, AUGUST 31st – The CN TOWER will illuminate PURPLE in recognition of INTERNATIONAL OVERDOSE AWARENESS DAY.
Join us at Roundhouse Park, 255 Bremner Blvd for a CANDLELIGHT VIGIL as we remember our loved ones and give strength to those struggling today.

This year Flags of Hope has collaborated with SISTERING and the YORK HERITAGE QUILTERS GUILD to craft quilts of remembrance from our Flags of Hope. These works of art will be on display at Nathan Phillips Square for the morning Flag Raising ceremony and at the base of CN Tower (Roundhouse Park) for the evening illumination and candlelight ceremony.
By holding these events, we are joining a global movement for Understanding, Compassion, Awareness and Change.

Flags of Hope, Change the Face of Addiction: By creating Flags of Hope, we are sending love and light to those who have passed due to drug related harms, and to those currently struggling. They also help raise awareness and strengthen the hope that there will be an end to the current crisis.

Moms Stop the Harm (MSTH) is a network of Canadian families whose loved ones died from drug related harms or who have struggled with substance use. We call for an end to the failed war on drugs and embrace an approach that reduces harm and respects human rights. People who use drugs should not be criminalized and must be treated with compassion and respect.

SISTERING is a low-barrier multi-service agency that offers practical and emotional support to marginalized women and diverse trans people through programs, which enable them to take greater control over their lives, including a harm reduction.

Families for Addiction Recovery (FAR) is a national charity founded by parents of children who have struggled with addiction from their teens. Our goal is long-term recovery for those with addiction and their families. FAR’s mission is to support families affected by substance use disorder and protect persons struggling with SUD, particularly youth, by promoting publicly-funded, timely, compassionate, evidence-based treatment; supporting research; and working to end stigma.

York Heritage Quilters Guild York strives to preserve the heritage of quilt making as a craft and art form. Our members promote learning, sharing and workmanship with each other and with the community. We will display heritage quilts made by the quilter’s guild from our Flags of Hope

Participants will be provided a purple carnation and a purple ribbon. They can write the name of the person they lost on the purple ribbon and tie it around the railing along the river. Local MH&A resources will be offered.

Join us August 31, 2021 from 10am-2pm at Gyro Park Penticton

Interior Health & Community Partner Agencies

Naloxone training and kits, information on how to connect and more..

More details TBA

This event is a community BBQ with local organizations on site who work with people who use drugs in our community. There will be a moment of silence, guest speakers and a memorial set up to pay respect for individuals in our community who have been effected by the overdose crisis.

A two part event will be taking place at Victoria Park Clock Tower. A group of community members will be hosting a drop-in from 11:00am – 6:30pm. The drop-in will be for; public education, creating a space for the community to come together to learn from different experiences and perspectives. To help bridge the larger community’s understanding of substance use, stigma and structural issues. It will consist of a visual reminder of the 370+ unique individuals who have passed away since 2017 in Waterloo Region. As well as a self guided education tour of this health crisis, including Naloxone distribution and training, support circles, music and art.

The day will end with a Vigil at 6:30pm – 8pm for those community members who are impacted by this health crisis. There will be speeches, stories, poems, and songs shared by those who are living this reality every day. Pizza (limited) and drinks will be available for our folks.

We believe in solidarity, we ask others who have been directly or indirectly impacted to come together to mourn, support, and learn what can be done to end any further preventable deaths. We invite you to come join in conversations on how we can shift the dialogue and the responsibility in this crisis by asking for change at all levels of government, including our Region. To do this, we are asking everyone to show up as individuals, not representing a job or organization but as humans who care. No organization is running this event, just affected community members. Everyone is invited, everyone is welcome. Please help spread the word.

On the Day:
1) Follow Covid-19 safety measures; practice social distancing, wear a mask
2) Wear purple or black (or your Supportive Shirts)
3) There is limited parking but there is nearby street parking on (Roland St, Schneider St, David St and Dill St)

If you would like to get involved, volunteer, support the event or have questions please email OverdoseAwarenessWR@gmail.com

Nanaimo – noon to 6 pm, August 31, Maffeo Sutton Park, 100 Comox Road. Hosted by the Nanaimo Community Action Team on the Overdose Crisis (a.k.a. the Nanaimo CAT). Highlights include welcome and prayer on behalf of Snuneymuxw First Nations, reading of the City of Nanaimo International Overdose Awareness Day Proclamation, speakers and story sharing, meet local service providers at pop-up resource tables, naloxone training and harm reduction education on behalf of AVI, art in the park with Rise Bridge and more! That evening from sunset (8pm) on an LED Light Vigil will be held at Wisteria Community Association’s Overdose Memorial Garden. Lights will
illuminate the garden and hearts at the corner of Wisteria Lane and Milton. As well, the Nanaimo Bastion will be lit up in purple and purple ribbons will be put up around the community in honor of loved ones lost, by Moms Stop the Harm.

There will be an information table for resources
Bring a picture of your loved one that lost their life to drug toxicity – we will honor, celebrate, and remember them!
Watch a livestreamed Candlelight Vigil at 6:30pm (bring your own chair):
Guest Speakers: Lisa LaPointe (BC Chief Coroner), Jennifer Charlesworth (Representative for Children and Youth), Adam Olsen (Green Party MLA) and Leslie McBain (Moms Stop the Harm)
Hosted by www.momsstoptheharm.com
Sign up for Naloxone Training to be facilitated by ANCHORS at a later date

1,600 crosses will be placed on the laws of the Saskatchewan Legislature to bring awareness to all the overdose deaths that have taken place in Saskatchewan since 2010.

We are marching from Jubilee Park to Trinity memorial United church followed by a free bbq, speakers, music and awards. Come join us to honour those we have lost and push for change for our communities!

In honour of International Overdose Awareness Day and in memory of lives lost due to the toxic drug crisis we invite you to join us for a candlelight vigil at Meridian Place at 8:00 pm on August 31st.

There will some songs of remembrance followed by a moment of silence, some words by family and friends of those lost and lightning of candles (battery operated)

Our Flags of Hope will be a part of these ceremonies after which time they will be displayed in the downtown branch of the Barrie Library for a limited time.

As purple is the colour of IOAD people are invited to wear purple.

As August is International Overdose Awareness Month people are invited to tie purple ribbons around their trees in remembrance of lives lost.

In keeping with COVID health guidelines, we are limiting the size of the gathering to 100 people. Purple ribbons will be handed as people arrive. Those attending are reminded to keep 6 feet apart from those not in their household and to wear masks when social distancing isn’t possible. Masks will be provided for those that need one

On International Overdose Awareness Day, August 31st, 2021 we invite you to join us for a Ceremony of Hope and Remembrance at City Hall in memory of lives lost due to the toxic drug crisis.

Our ceremony will begin at 10:00 am and will include the lowering of flags in memory of those lost due to the toxic drug crisis, a moment of silence followed by words of remembrance and hope.

The Gilbert Centre will be on-site sharing information about Harm reduction and handing out Naloxone kits. Hospice Simcoe will be on hand to offer grief support.

As purple is the colour of IOAD people are invited to wear purple.

As August is International Overdose Awareness Month people are invited to tie purple ribbons around their trees in remembrance of lives lost.

In keeping with COVID health guidelines, we are limiting the size of the gathering to 100 people. Those attending are reminded to keep 6 feet apart from those not in their household and to wear masks when social distancing isn’t possible. Masks will be provided for those that need one.

Castlegar & District Community Services Society is hosting an Overdose Awareness Day event. Free barbeque, harm reduction supplies, naloxone training, as well as relevant information and local resources will be available. Join us in the conversation about the importance of harm reduction and destigmatization of substance use on August 31st!

Castlegar & District Community Services Society is hosting an Overdose Awareness Day event. Free barbeque, harm reduction supplies, naloxone training, as well as relevant information and local resources will be available. Join us in the conversation about the importance of harm reduction and destigmatization of substance use on August 31st!

On this International Overdose Awareness Day, please join Safeworks for a free screening of Painkiller: Inside the Opioid Crisis followed by a panel discussion with local experts.
5:15pm – 7:30pm at the Central Library in Calgary
This TELUS Health Originals documentary, tells the human story behind the overdose epidemic affecting Canada. The documentary seeks to raise awareness and end the stigma of addiction by educating and informing viewers on what Fentanyl is and how it is affecting our country.

Join us at Central Memorial Park starting at 10:00am for speakers, performances and more to help us all understand how this affects each one of us. Come join us to remember the loved ones we have lost. It’s time to Remember. It’s time to Act.

Join us on Tuesday, Aug. 31, 2021, from 11-3 pm in Spirit Square for Overdose Awareness Day. We will have education stations set up, including naloxone training, harm reduction, and other community resources. We will also have community-based art projects focused on raising awareness of the impact of the illicit Drug-Poisoning crisis in our region.

Online trivia to break down myths and share DrinkSmartTIPS related to alcohol overdose prevention, signs, and responses.

Community art displayed in downtown Mission businesses.
Music – MarKaren, Low Barrier Chorus (harm reduction choir) and more.
Resource tables, Naloxone training, conversation.
6:30 PM – Remembrance Vigil

International Overdose Awareness Day is August 31. Each year this event aims to raise awareness about overdose and that overdose is preventable. International Overdose Awareness Day remembers those who have died or sustained a permanent injury related to drug use. Join our local International Overdose Awareness Day North Bay (CDSNBA) Planning Committee for a week of events in honour of those who have been affected by overdose.

Registration for all online events is required. To register, Registration for all events closes on Fri., August 27, 2021 @ 12 p.m.
https://www.myhealthunit.ca/en/health-topics/international-overdose-awareness-day.asp
Questions?
Email: harmreductionpillarcdsnb@outlook.com

Week of Events for Mon., August 30 – Fri., September 3, 2021.

Online Naloxone Training – Mon., August 30, 2021 @ 10-11:30 a.m.
Learn how to help save a life. This online training will provide basic information about opioids, signs and symptoms of an opioid overdose, and how to respond to an opioid overdose. Participants will have an opportunity to ask questions and will be provided with additional resources.
Please register via this link: https://www.myhealthunit.ca/en/health-topics/international-overdose-awareness-day.asp

Online Opening Ceremonies – Tues., August 31, 2021 @ 1-2 p.m.
Join us for our online International Overdose Awareness Day opening ceremonies in remembrance of those affected by overdose. We will be discussing the importance of OAD, on-going concerns, week of events, etc. Please register via this link: https://www.myhealthunit.ca/en/health-topics/international-overdose-awareness-day.asp

Free Snack Bags – Wed., September 1, 2021 – All Day!
Free snack bags, that include harm reduction messaging, on Wednesday. To pick up a snack bag in North Bay, Sturgeon Falls, Parry Sound, or Mattawa, please follow this link for more information: https://www.myhealthunit.ca/en/health-topics/international-overdose-awareness-day.asp

Online Substance Use Panel – Thurs., September 2, 2021 @ 1:30-3:30 p.m.
An interactive live panel of working professionals and individuals with lived experience will discuss the awareness, importance, and prevention of overdoses as we honour those affected by overdose. Panelists will answer your questions, and speak about substance use related trends and work occurring in the Nipissing and Parry Sound districts. Prevention, harm reduction, treatment and enforcement perspectives will be provided.
Submit questions in advance using the Google form provided or ask them on the day of the event!
Please register for this event via this link: https://www.myhealthunit.ca/en/health-topics/international-overdose-awareness-day.asp

Here are two other activities you can participate in over the week:
International Overdose Awareness Day Giveaways: Pick-up one of our giveaway packages at the sites listed below, while quantities last. Each package includes a naloxone button, pin, memorial flower packet, pop socket and harm reduction card.
Visit the Overdose Awareness Garden: Write a message on your memorial flower packet to someone affected by overdose. Visit and/or plant the package in the International Overdose Awareness Day garden, located across from City Hall (McIntyre Street) throughout the week. You may also wish to plant you memorial flower packet in your garden at home.

Participate in one of the activities listed above at the following locations, North Bay, Sturgeon Falls, Parry Sound, or Mattawa, please follow this link for more information: https://www.myhealthunit.ca/en/health-topics/international-overdose-awareness-day.asp
Prizes!
Participate in any of the online or in-person activities at the locations above to have your name entered into a draw for a door prize!

To learn more about International Overdose Awareness Day, visit: our Overdose Awareness Day North Bay Facebook page! https://m.facebook.com/Overdose-Awareness-Day-North-Bay-434777910711126/

Virtual Memorial Event honouring those affected by the overdose crisis in our communities.

We are having a memorial service, Narcan training, CPR basics, how to spot an OD and knowledge on the Good Samaritan Law.

6 PM – evening Dinner
7 PM evening open forum with speakers of International Traditional Medicine/ alternative methods for addiction’s
Iboga Ceremony Shaman
Peyote/ Native American Church and Traditional Indigenous Medicine, minister/road man
someone who has been on the front lines of DTES Vancouver Opioid Crisis for 9 years

A walk down our main street tying purple ribbons and pictures of our loved ones lost to the poles
ends down at the park with a song of remembrance being sung by a friend. Will also have an information table set up from SMDHU

MNBC will be at Gateway Station/Headquarters for Metis Nation BC. We will be offering information, snacks, and water. As this is our new location, we want to welcome and meet anyone who would like to stop by.

A time to REMEMBER LIVES LOST. A Time to ACT.
The Mission Overdose Community Action Team (MOCAT) hosts the community arts dialogue Flower Power – Growing Stronger Together. Growing our understanding, our knowledge, our compassion, our trust. Growing a stronger, more resilient community where everyone is valued and can flourish.

FREE COMMUNITY PICNIC & Art Making Dialogue August 26 3-6pm
Fraser River Heritage Park
Show Your Support! Paint a flower, abstracts, anime, cartoon – wherever your art takes you! Refreshments and all art
materials supplied. All ages welcome. All the art work will be displayed at the IOAD ARTWALK August 31 4—7pm First Avenue
Flower Power Community Art Show in downtown Mission businesses.

International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) provides an opportunity for us to reflect on practical ways to prevent overdose in our community. Overdose is preventable.

Join us on this Overdose Day event to learn about overdose awareness and prevention from leaders on the front line of the overdose crisis. Including those with lived experience, family, Indigenous, Medical and First Responder perspectives.

Key Note: Guy Felicella

Guy spent years in the grips of addiction and now dedicates his life to advocating for harm reduction and removing the stigma against addiction and substance users. He will discuss relevant topics of safer supply, decriminalization, harm reduction and treatment options. Guy is pushing the barriers to address current overdose crisis and addressing the truth behind the toxic drug supply.

Learn and ask questions to this diverse group of presenters:
Leslie Mcbain – Co-Founder Moms Stop the Harm, Family Lead BCCSU, Bereaved Mother
Len Pierre – Consultant, Indigenous Cultural Safety and Humility
Dr. Sharon Vipler – Addiction Medicine Lead, Fraser Health, Opioid Agonist Therapy
Mark Griffioen – Surrey Deputy Fire Chief of Community Risk Reduction, From Data to Action
Hosted by Jesse Atton – Mental Health & Harm Reduction Worker/Advocate

We are teaming up with community partners, staff, clients, and families who have lost loved ones to raise awareness, provide education and resources, and reduce stigma.

Virtual Overdose Awareness Symposium

Tuesday, August 31, 2021

10:30 – 11:30 am

Join online: https://bit.ly/OverdoseAwarenessDay2021

Join by phone: 613-209-3054

Meeting ID: 944 7234 6841 / Passcode: 535590

Substance use deaths have a huge impact in our community. From the family and friends who are grieving to the way these deaths are viewed, often from a stigmatizing lens, there are impacts on us all. Unfortunately, stigma and prejudice can go hand-in-hand with the grief that stems from substance use deaths. This can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and isolation for those who are grieving.

Join us for an education session to learn more about the impact of substance use death from a personal and community perspective where supportive first-person language will be used, and ideas for support offered for everyone.

Substance use deaths have a huge impact in our community. From the family and friends who are grieving to the way these deaths are viewed, often from a stigmatizing lens, there are impacts on us all. Unfortunately, stigma and prejudice can go hand-in-hand with the grief that stems from substance use deaths. This can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and isolation for those who are grieving.

Join us for an education session to learn more about the impact of substance use death from a personal and community perspective where supportive first-person language will be used, and ideas for support offered for everyone.

Substance use deaths have a huge impact in our community. From the family and friends who are grieving to the way these deaths are viewed, often from a stigmatizing lens, there are impacts on us all. Unfortunately, stigma and prejudice can go hand-in-hand with the grief that stems from substance use deaths. This can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and isolation for those who are grieving.

Join us for an education session to learn more about the impact of substance use death from a personal and community perspective where supportive first-person language will be used, and ideas for support offered for everyone.

Take what you need and leave the rest table (naloxone; harm reduction supplies; menstrual products and personal care items)
Meals to Go
Naloxone Training
Education and Awareness Tables
Speakers including those with lived experience
Recognition of lives lost

Take what you need and leave the rest table (naloxone; harm reduction supplies; menstrual products and personal care items)
Meals to Go
Naloxone Training
Education and Awareness Tables
Speakers including those with lived experience
Recognition of lives lost

Come visit and post a name of a loved one whose life has been lost due to Opiods or leave an encouraging message.

Memorial Walk 9:30-9:45am Starting at Mount Elgin Monument to the Chippewa Ball Park
Honour Song and Opening words from Chief French
Invited Speakers & Open Mic 11:00-11:30am
Indigenous Traditional Feast 12:00
Closing words & Clean up 1:00pm

A Walk for J first began in Winnipeg in 2018, then branded as Drop the Needle, Pick up the Pace which was the walk’s name for 2 years before rebranding it A Walk for J last year. I started this walk in honour of my sister Jeni who I lost to an Overdose in 2017 in Florida where she was living . My sister loved the ocean and beaches so while I know she loved the first 2 live walks she would participarticularly love this route, Whike I started this walk to honour my sister it is meant to honour every soul we lost too soon to a drug related death. To honour every person from A to Z is what A Walk for J aims to do while spreading awareness.

Hosted by the Addiction Matters Kamloops coalition this is a public gathering to remember, without stigma, those we have lost to overdose through art, education, Naloxone training, music, poetry, bannock and more.

A memorial event for all those lost to overdose, harm reduction training and peer support. Facilitated by peers for peers and their families.

Join us to remember, without stigma, those we have lost to overdose and acknowledge the profound grief of family and friends left behind. We will connect through art, education, Naloxone training, music, poetry, bannock and more.
Everyone is welcome

World Poisoning Awareness Day is a virtual memorial and day of education and action on August 31st from 10AM-4pm.
We aim to amplify the voices of people who use drugs (PWUD), raise awareness about overdose prevention, and reduce the stigma that surrounds drug-related deaths.
We demand an end to racist and oppressive and failed ‘war on drugs’.
The morning of this event will focus on education about harm reduction and the negative implications of the ‘war on drugs’ as well as resources of support. The afternoon portion of the day will honour and remember the lives lost during this poisoning epidemic.

Register online: https://forms.gle/GPo9mKJRNTreH7fA7

Display table with education board, resources, Naloxone Training, free Naloxone Kits. Education, knowledge exchange, Printed materials.

Please join us on August 31 at 11am for a memorial demonstration, naloxone training, harm reduction items and education about substance poisoning.

WE PLAN TO DRAW BODY SHAPES TO MAKE PEOPLE AWARE OF THE TREMENDOUS NUMBER OF PEOPLE DYING FROM TAINTED STREET DRUGS. WE WILL TIE A PURPLE RIBBON BY EACH SHAPE AND LEAVE SOME “POSTCARD”MESSAGES TO HELP PEOPLE DEVELOP AWARENESS.

WE WILL BE ASKING TELUS SCIENCE WORLD, BURRARD BRIDGE, ROGERS, BC PLACE, CITY HALL ,AND VARIOUS OTHER LOCATIONS TO ‘LIGHT UP PURPLE.”

This years event will once again hold a virtual vigil on Facebook Live. The city and county will be awash with purple ribbons that can be picked up at several key location across the county. This is also a place to leave your memorial pieces for someone who has been lost to a drug poisoning. A social media campaign will run Aug 25-Sept 1 along with Print and radio spots through out the week.

DRUGS! (The Musical)
has it all:
a VLOG, an Instagram, a FaceBook page, a TikTok, a telethon, a documentary, the musical itself, and now an official GoFundMe campaign to raise money for community partners across Canada making a difference in the realm of Harm Reduction!

Joe Amero is a Toronto based comedian and Social Worker. He’s a graduate of the Longform & Improv conservatories at The Second City Training Centre where he co-created his prolific troupe Pepperoni Pizza Cats.
Joe is an alumni of Bad Dog Theatre’s Featured Players and has enjoyed performing stand up and sketch comedy as well as appearing in films. Joe is a survivor of addiction and is beyond grateful to spend his time these days with his loving family.

DRUGS! (The Musical) is the follow up to his sold out one person show Blood.
But this isn’t about Joe Amero or even DRUGS! (The Musical).
The whole idea was created to raise awareness through education and destigmatize drug use by celebrating the true and steady soldiers on the front lines doing the real work and contribute to their amazingly worthy cause.

ALL the proceeds from this campaign will benefit Canadian Harm Reduction efforts and initiatives.

Harm Reduction (as defined by The Canadian Drug Policy Coalition ) is a comprehensive, just and science-based approach to substance use. It represents policies, strategies and services, which aim to assist people who use legal and illegal psychoactive drugs to live safer and healthier lives.

Thanks to you all in advance for your contribution to this undeniable, evidence-based intervention and the amazing people practicing it and saving lives every day.

*Here’s our list of community partners as of now:

Ontario
Hamilton AIDS Network
Toronto Indigenous Harm Reduction (TIHR)

Quebec
AQPSUD

Nova Scotia
The ALLY Centre of Cape Breton

New Brunswick
Avenue B

Prince Edward Island & ALL of the Atlantic Region
SUNAR – Substance User Network of the Atlantic Region

Newfoundland
ACNL

Alberta
Turning Point

Saskatchewan
Prairie Harm Reduction

Manitoba
Manitoba Harm Reduction Network

British Columbia
Moms Stop The Harm

Northwest Territories
Yellowknife Womens Society Yellowknife Street Outreach

Yukon
Blood Ties Four Directions Centre

Nunavut
Nunavut Kamatsiaqtut Help Line

*Partners subject to change

Our goal is to hand them $1000 each to aid in their amazing work (but we’re fairly certain they’d accept more)
Please donate today
HARM REDUCTION SAVES LIVES!

Free pizza, ribbons, naloxone, information and print resources will be distributed to raise awareness about the ongoing Opioid Crisis.

We are creating a free community event, with a resource fair, free lunch, entertainment, and Personal Experiences Speaker & Tributes of

We’re Hoping to have all different types of things going on. Come to learn how to use Narcan kits, how to know when someone is having an overdose and what to do. Learn about the “Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act” also a candlelit memorial for all the mothers, dads, brothers, sisters, cousins, aunts uncles and children whom have lost their life to overdose.

From 6:30pm-8pm
Ribbon tying, naloxone training, hydration station, purchase merch to support The Nameless, and space to create art.
Masks and social distancing in place.

Moms Stop the Harm South Okanagan
presents

International Overdose Awareness Day:
Prevention and Remembrance

at Oliver Eats Ltd.
6060 Station St. Oliver, BC

Tuesday August 31 2021
10am – 3pm

Free Admission for All
Free Pancake Brunch & Cookies
Free Haircuts & Counselling
Balloon Animals, Colouring Pages, Family & Youth Friendly Activities
Nasal & Injectable Naloxone Training
Live Music by yarrows, Double Stop Creek, The Cliff McIntyre Band and badgentina.

Hosted with the support of:
Osoyoos Indian Band
Oliver Eats Ltd.
Desert Sun Counselling & Resource Centre
Oliver Missions
InnerVisions Hair Design
Lucky Crane Pottery
OneSky Community Resources
Foundry Penticton
Keep The Cold Off Penticton
Penticton +Area Overdose Prevention Society

All activities are dependent upon the most up to date safety regulations for BC, according to the Public Health Act.
Unforeseen changes may be made.

Taco Tuesday Themed Event in support of International Overdose Awareness Day, August 31st.

Why not combine one of our favorite foods with activities and information for all ages regarding substances, community organizations, Naloxone Kits, substance use and mental health prevention and health promotion. Please join the Olds and Area Substance Use Coalition in honoring those we have lost to overdose, look at how we can work at reducing stigma, and learn ways to support one another while respecting our differences!

We will provide free taco tickets on a first come first served basis for up to 150 people. There will a requirement for you to complete (albeit a fun and informative, inclusive one) before you are able to turn your tickets in for delicious food!

Many community organizations will have tables set up with information on services provided and will be on site to answer any questions you may have. Activities for all ages will include things like: “Toss Your Cookies” game with alcohol impairment goggles, “Walk the Line” with cannabis impairment goggles, “Pay it Forward” positive message card making station, amongst others.

The overdose crisis has only increased in severity since the pandemic hit last year, the drug supply has become increasingly toxic and cross contaminated, supervised consumption services in Alberta have been closed, evidenced based harm reduction programming has been reduced…. and people are losing their lives at higher rates than ever. Come learn about how we can work at preventing overdose and poisonings, and realize that every life lost is someone’s father, sister, child, parent, friend, and loved one.

If you have any questions or would like to discuss this event further, please contact us on social media or via email (Facebook and Instagram: @oldsstubstanceuse, email: emailoldssubstanceuse@gmail.com)

Powell River will have March
Die in
Candlelight vigil/memorial
Pizza and refreshments

Awareness day/memorial day/training day
Free BBQ – community event

Hosted by Albertans for Evidence Based Drug Policy
Join the coalition of Albertans for Evidence Based Drug Policy on International Overdose Awareness Day #IOAD2021 for a march and rally. We gather to remember thousands of Albertans who have died by drug poisoning or other substance use related causes and to call for an effective public health response to this crisis.

Meet at noon at the Homeless Memorial Park in Edmonton (103A Ave and 100 St.) and march to the legislature with outreach and action along the way.
The rally at the steps of the Alberta legislature begins at 1:30 pm with speakers from coalition members, lead by people with lived and living experiences.
#DrugPolicyDeathAB #IOAD2021 #SupportSCS
In 2021 more people have died from drug poisoning than ever before in the history of our province. In March of 2021 more than 4 people died every day. The UCP government responded to this crisis by closing live-saving harm reduction services, which has already resulted in the deaths of people who used to use these services, while evidence-based interventions, such as the expansion of supervised consumption services and the provision of safe pharmaceutical alternatives to ever more toxic street drugs is flat out rejected. While the investment in treatment promised by the UCP, is positive, we first have to keep people alive.

We can’t let the people we love die. Join us to take a stand for evidence and for life.
Albertans for Evidence Based Drug Policy includes many concerned individuals and the following organizations:

AAWEAR
The Canadian Association of People who Use Drugs (CAPUD)
Moms Stop the Harm
Change the Face of Addiction
HIV Legal Network
The Canadian Drug Policy Coalition
The Harm Reduction Nurses Association (HRNA)
Alberta Nurses Coalition for Harm Reduction (ANCHR)
EACH+EVERY – Businesses for Harm Reduction
Friends of Medicare
Westside Harm Reduction
The Liam Project – Calgary
Canadian Students for Sensible Drug Policy – National, Calgary and Edmonton Chapter

The Overdose Awareness event will begin at 1-4 pm. I will have social distance circles on grass and there will be people speaking in recovery as well as Narcan training and lots of information. We will have a projector playing a slide show of our loved ones lost to addiction and health issues from substance use. There will be members from our local Harm Reduction offices Parn and Elizabeth Fry as well as 4-Cast as they can become quite close to their clients. I am extending an invite to our Medical Officer Of Health again this year too. We will also have different Moms speaking. I am a member of Moms Stop The Harm and a few other members will be in attendance too.

Please join us at the Port Credit Lighthouse at 7pm for our International Overdose Awareness Day Ceremony, where we will remember our loved ones, raise awareness and try to end the stigma!

Commemorate our Purple Bridge of Hope. Various organizations will set up Booths for awareness and Harm Reduction, Speeches, Music, Awareness and support

A walk to booths with trivia questions for participants to answer, Once completed the trivia questions, hand in the paper for a draw.
To lead up to the fact finding fun, a panel discussion including, cultural, colonisation, and substance use will be held.

– Naloxone Kit training
– Give Aways
– Memorial Board

Our event will provide an opportunity for families to honour loved ones lost to overdose and substance use harms. Mostly a memorial event with a candlelight vigil. The High Level Bridge will be lit in purple to commemorate IOAD. There will be the opportunity for people to speak their loved ones names and to support one another.

We will have purple ribbons, flameless candles, car decals and a calendar available for sale.

**More details to be announced on our FB page as they are available**

The evening will provide an opportunity to come together to honor loved ones lost to overdose, raise awareness on the overdose epidemic, help to end the stigma associated with overdose and substance use. During the event there will be naloxone kits available with training, a memorial activity and a candle vigil. This is a free event.

A Walk for J was started in Winnipeg, Manitoba, then under the name Drop the Needle, Pick up the Pace, in 2018. It was was rebranded A Walk for J in 2020 in honour of my sister Jeni Leigh and Jody Wasserman’s brother Josh Zeller. Due to COVID-19 restrictions still in place our walk this year will be virtual. We are opening up our event from the weekend of August 28 to Aug 31 (IOAD). We are asking people to wear purple and capture photos or videos of themselves walking. It could be up a mountain, by water, in your small bubble or by yourself. Post your photos to your social media and our A Walk for J Facebook page

The event will include speakers, music, a land acknowledgement and blessing, naloxone, information and a candlelight vigil.

Hosting our Second International Overdose Awareness Day Event.

This event will be a memorial event, an event to raise awareness and show support.

What: Overdose Awareness and Remembrance Day
When: Tuesday, August 31st 2021 11am meet at 150 Bentinck Street, gather to march down to Wentworth Park. Event start at 11:45am
Where: Wentworth Park Bandshell, Sydney, NS
Why: To invite you to stand beside friends and families of overdose victims to reflect on their lives and their losses. Events such as this will reinforce the idea that no-one feels shame or disgrace at the death of someone from drug overdose. There are programs and interventions that can safely prevent deaths due to overdose. Cape Breton is without this programming although proposals have and will continue to be submitted to both federal and provincial health departments and efforts are being made nationally to change policy within government to make the tools necessary for these interventions available to the populations most affected.
We invite anybody who lost someone to overdose to submit the first name of the person they lost to our naloxone trainer, communitynaloxonetrainer@gmail.com. You can come to the Ally Centre prior to the event to write their name, or on site the day of the event. We will hold 3 moments of silence – One for the people who have died of accidental overdose; One for the families, friends and loved ones of those who passed; and one to appeal for evidence based interventions, services and supports to mitigate the risks for people who use drugs.

Human beings are like books: they contain stories and wisdom far beyond their covers or outward appearances. This session will feature four speakers who have lived experience of loss related to addictions and/or overdose. It’s time to open up conversations, increase our understanding, normalize human vulnerability and reduce stigma associated with substance use.

The event will include a memorial to those who have lost their lives to drug poisoning that individuals can contribute to. There will be overdose response training and naloxone kits provided. Discussions around stigma will be promoted. There will be the opportunity for people to stand with one another in support of those who have lost loved ones to overdose/drug poisoning. The event hopes to also raise awareness of the issues surrounding the opioid epidemic including decreasing stigma.
**More details to be announced as they become available**

Langley will be hosting dual static displays at two sites. A display of empty shoes at Derek Doubleday representing the lives lost to overdose since a public health emergency was declared in our province five years ago. A second display of crosses tied with purple ribbons at Derek Doubleday.

On August 31st a memorial walk is planned for 6pm from Derek Doubleday to Douglas Park (~1.3km). Upon arrival at Douglas Park we will have available naloxone training, a community BBQ, speakers corner, and culminating in a candlelight vigil & memorial.

Primarily virtual with a live streaming base
Memorial Opening
Education – harm reduction
Art Gallery
Advocacy
Grief Workshop
Memorial Closing

Ioad overdose awareness and balloon release

Candle light vigil the night before on August 30, 7pm.
August 31, 1pm Victoria Park.

In honour of my fiancé, Jacob Fedorneac, who passed away on June 3, 2020 from a fentanyl overdose- he was only 26. Mental health and addiction were two things that were very important to him and he took the time to educate himself and others around him break the stigma surrounding the two.

Going to spread the word about overdose and continue to be a narcan advocate.

Speakers and tables with information in regards to overdose awareness . Tributes and education.