The organization which runs the John Howard Society Drop-In at Bridge Street United Church says the impact of this week’s drug poisonings, some of which occurred at the drop-in centre has been overwhelming for many.
Sheila Braidek, co-chair of The Bridge Integrated Care Hub says it’s been traumatic for the victims, Drop-In staff, emergency services and people who witnessed the events.
She says this crisis highlights the importance of having an adequate health and social infrastructure in place to support people who are vulnerable.
The Bridge Integrated Care Hub plans to offer a multitude of services to support the vulnerable community and continues to work on securing a proper location.
Read the full statement from The Bridge Integrated Care Hub below:
TOXIC DRUG SUPPLY LEADS TO NUMEROUS DRUG POISONINGS AT BELLEVILLE DROP-IN PROGRAM
On February 6, 2024, numerous people experienced drug poisoning within a very short amount of time. Some of these occurred at the Drop-In Centre operated by John Howard Society at Bridge Street United Church in Belleville, Ontario.
“The impact of these toxic drug poisonings is overwhelming for those who were victims of the drug poisoning, the staff of the Drop-In, our emergency services, and the people who witnessed the events,” says Sheila Braidek, co-chair of The Bridge Integrated Care Hub, and executive director of Belleville Quinte West Community Health Centre. “We appreciate the support of our whole community while we navigate our way through the next few days and over the long term.”
The intention of The Bridge Integrated Care Hub is to be a low barrier, collaborative care hub for essential supports, social services and primary health care for people experiencing homelessness in the Belleville community. The Bridge programming includes the Drop-In at Bridge Street United Church until a new location, currently in process, is complete.
The Bridge Drop-In is a welcoming space where community is created and where hope is nurtured. “The Drop-in is an important, respected and life-saving space for our guests and right now the focus for everyone, staff and guests alike, is making sure each other is safe and supported,” says JJ Cormier, executive director of John Howard Society Belleville & District, and co-chair of The Bridge Integrated Care Hub. “It is important to understand that using drugs is often not a choice, it’s an addiction – an illness like any other requiring care.”
This more recent crisis highlights the importance of having an adequate health and social infrastructure in place to support people who are vulnerable; harm reduction strategies are needed across the city, and appropriate facilities, services and funding are required to support people who need help.
“We cannot control a toxic drug supply – but we can take action to mitigate its impact,” says Braidek. “Our response needs to be guided by empathy, care and evidence. We are going to need the help of all levels of government, all health and social services and the community at large to ensure we can realize our collective goal of a truly integrated hub of care in an appropriate facility. The ongoing toxic drug crisis is a big part of why an integrated response is desperately needed. Until then, the doors of the Drop-In are open to those who need it.”
If you feel someone is experiencing an overdose, please call 911. We also remind anyone who uses drugs of the advice from the Hastings Prince Edward Public Health Unit. If you use drugs, do not use them while alone, refrain from mixing drugs, try a small amount first to reduce the risk of drug poisoning and always have at least one naloxone kit nearby.
