Wednesday is International Overdose Awareness Day.
Addictions and Mental Health Services – Hastings Prince Edward is collaborating with several community partners to recognize the day with an event at Market Square.
The event is part of the world’s largest annual campaign to raise awareness of the current opioid crisis and reduce stigma surrounding addiction.
Public Health Ontario data indicates there were more than 2,600 opioid-related deaths in Ontario in 2021, 31 of them in Hastings and Prince Edward Counties.
A highlight of the afternoon will be the unveiling of a commissioned art piece by local artist Sarah Winn.
It visually represents the impact of stigma and the importance of support.
Addictions and Mental Health Services CEO Jennifer Keilty-Friesen says overdose affects all of us but encouraging acceptance and responding to overdose with compassion will help people feel less fear, worthlessness and rejection.
Hastings Prince Edward Public Health will also distribute naloxone kits and demonstrate how to use them in the event of a drug overdose.
The event runs from 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.
