On Aug. 31, communities around British Columbia (BC) are invited to remember without stigma those friends, family members or community members who have been lost to the toxic drug emergency.
International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) is the world's largest annual campaign to end overdose, and an opportunity to acknowledge the grief felt by those left behind.
First Nations communities have been disproportionately impacted by the toxic drug emergency and this loss of life has been deeply felt throughout BC. As a health and wellness partner to First Nations in BC, the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) wants to support communities in bringing awareness to the resources and help available to those who use substances.
The FNHA will be mailing out purple ribbon lapel pins attached to harm reduction-themed postcards to support communities and organizations observing IOAD.
The postcards will include important
advice on preventing overdose, and links people to
harm reduction videos, our grief and loss website “Honouring Our Loved Ones," and resources for
Naloxone. Each postcard will include a purple ribbon pin that can be worn on your clothing or bag, signifying your support in preventing overdose.
Please email
communications@fnha.ca with the subject line: “International Overdose Awareness Day Pins." As well, please state:
- Your name and First Nations community or organization
- Quantity desired (50-200)
- Mailing address for Canada Post (Please note that Canada Post cannot deliver to P.O. boxes)
- Phone number (optional, in the event of shipping errors)
Please send your request before Aug. 15 to ensure enough time to reach your mailing address by Aug. 31.
Addressing overdose from toxic drugs is one of FNHA's top organizational priorities. The FNHA moved to a Level 2 emergency response in early 2023 to provide more support across the spectrum of health and wellness services. To learn more about the FNHA's response, please visit
fnha.ca/harmreduction.
