Public health project receives $1.9M for addiction and overdose supports
Posted Jun 19, 2026 01:08:33 PM.
Last Updated Jun 19, 2026 03:14:01 PM.
Addiction and overdose supports in Waterloo Region are getting a funding boost from Health Canada.
Region of Waterloo Public Health has been awarded $1.9 million through the Emergency Treatment Fund to support a project. It’s one of 30 across the country to be selected, out of 400 applicants.
Public health will support the work of five collaborating agencies: The Working Centre, Sanguen Health Centre, Thrive HIV, Crow Shield Lodge, and the Canadian Mental Health Association Waterloo-Wellington.
It’s part of a project that will include expanding the capacity of inclusive spaces for people experiencing homelessness, building peer supports and outreach, and continuing the Drug Checking Program.
“The Check and Connect program offers a real-time, life-saving tool through the Drug Checking Program where a drug checking machine can identify components of a substance before it is consumed,” said Anne Phillips, Senior Director of Sanguen Health Centre, in a release. “This powerful tool reduces the likelihood of accidental overdoses, emergency service calls, and even deaths – keeping people informed means keeping people alive.”
Crow Shield Lodge said it will use the funding to expand culturally appropriate supports for the Indigenous community, including sharing circles.
“We will work alongside community partners to build lasting relationships and offer a place where these individuals can feel connected and supported, wherever they are in their journey,” said Sydney Keedwell, HR and Lodge Lead.
Waterloo Region’s Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Hsiu-Li Wang, said local partnerships are vital for advancing community-based strategies and solutions.
The federal funding is also meant to complement the work of the province’s HART Hub.
