Community Events Planned for International Overdose Awareness Day 2024

2 August 2024

International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD), recognized annually on August 31 is the world’s largest annual campaign to end drug poisonings, remember without stigma those who have died from drug poisonings, and acknowledge the grief of family and friends left behind. 

The IOAD 2024 theme Together We Can highlights the power of our community when we all stand together.

On August 28, CMHA HPE is collaborating with community partners to host IOAD events throughout HPE to raise awareness about drug poisonings, stigma, Naloxone and available community supports.

Community Events – Wednesday, August 28, 2024

Bancroft – Event poster (Pdf)

Bancroft Family Health Team located at 19 Oak Street, Bancroft from 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm [Google Map]

People with lived experience will share stories, there will be an opportunity to create memorials in support of those who have lost their lives to an overdose and cupcakes will provided at this event.

Belleville – Event poster (Pdf)

Belleville Market Square located at 169 Front Street, Belleville from 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm [Google Map]

People with lived experience will share stories and Peer Support South East Ontario will provide food at this event.

Picton – Event poster (Pdf)

Giant Tiger Parking Lot located at 20 Elizabeth Street, Picton from 10:00 am – 1:00 pm [Google Map]

A canvas will be available for community members to sign in support of those who have lost their lives to an overdose at this event.

Trenton – Event poster (Pdf)

Centennial Park located at 12 Couch Crescent, Trenton from 11:00 am – 3:00 pm [Google Map]

There will be games, painting and food will be provided at this event.

Tweed – Event poster (Pdf)

Tweed Memorial Park located at 45 Victoria Street South, Tweed from 11:00 am – 2:00 pm [Google Map]

People with lived experience will share stories, there will be live music, painting and Duffer’s Chip Wagon will provide food at this event.

Drug poisoning can happen to anyone, including people who use street drugs, people who use prescription drugs, or people who are experimenting with recreational drugs. Substance use disorders can also affect anyone, as addiction and mental health disorders are complex and are impacted by a variety of factors outside of individual control. It is important that people with substance use disorders are treated with the same dignity and respect as those experiencing any other health issue.

Community members are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the signs of drug poisoning and know how to respond to an overdose. If you experience a substance use disorder, you are not alone. For more information, visit hpePublicHealth.ca/safer-drug-use/.

Learn more about IOAD at overdoseday.com.

Show your support for #IOAD2024 by sharing information about this year’s IOAD events with your networks and on social media. #TogetherWeCan #EndOverdose