Drug Poisoning Awareness Day event held amid provincial changes for safe consumption sites

Drug Poisoning Awareness Day events took place at Victoria Park in Kitchener on Wednesday, just one day after regulation changes made by the provincial government.

Those changes, which include a ban on supervised drug consumption sites within 200 metres of schools and childcare centres, are expected to close several consumption and treatment services sites across Ontario, including in Kitchener and Guelph.

It was the seventh annual event hosted by the Overdose Education Work Group of the Waterloo Region Integrated Drugs Strategy, an event that is meant to bring attention to International Overdose Awareness Day on Aug. 31.

The event included a memorial activity for those grieving a loved one due to drug poisoning, guest speakers, as well as information and support about harm reduction services and programs.

“It gives an opportunity for people who often feel they’re alone, who’ve not been able to honour the people that have died,” said Pearson, when asked about the impact the event has on the community.

“It giving people the first time to have that memorial.”

“I get some hope seeing so many people here tonight,” said Green Party MP Mike Morrice, who was in attendance.

“Its going to take thousands and thousands of people pushing back on this decision so that we don’t just stay aware of the toxic drug deaths in our community, but so we actually take action and make decisions that will reduce preventable deaths.”

Another Drug Poisoning Awareness Day event is scheduled to take place on Saturday in Cambridge at Soper Park, running from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.