Yorkton

Community organizations, health-care providers and residents gathered in Yorkton on Aug. 31 for International Overdose Awareness Day, aiming to raise awareness about substance use, reduce stigma and connect people with available supports.

The day began with a barbecue at Bruno’s Place before participants walked to City Centre Park for an afternoon of speakers, cultural performances, naloxone training and remembrance activities.

Lisa Kroll, case plan manager at Bruno’s Place, said the event was designed to bring people together while recognizing the impact substance use has on individuals and families across the community.

“We’re going to have some awareness brought to the community,” she said. “We’re also going to have people that were in recovery or are recovered.”

The gathering also included powwow dancers from the Dr. Brass Powwow Group, musical performances, information booths and tea lights where participants could write the names of loved ones affected by substance use.