
July 26, 2018 · 0 Comments
By Mike Pickford
A group of local not-for-profit agencies have this week come together to commemorate those from the community who have lost their lives to addiction.
In a release to media, Family Transition Place announced it was one of a number of community stakeholders to assist in the installation of a memorial plaque at Dods & McNair Funeral Home after the local business planted a tree to remember those who have died over the years because of an overdose. The plaque reads, “This tree has been planted in memory of those we’ve loved and lost to addiction.”
“It is a beautiful spot and the committee (involved in putting the plaque together) hopes that family members and friends of those lose to overdose addiction will find some comfort when visiting the tree,” the release states.
We here in Dufferin County are not immune to this frightening epidemic. Local emergency responders have noticed a significant increase in overdose cases within the community over the past two years. As a result, collaborating agencies, FTP included, want to raise awareness and promote education to help prevent any future tragedies from occurring.
As such, FTP is excited to host its second annual Overdose Awareness barbecue and health fair on August 30. The event will take place at the Edelbrock Centre between 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. A survivor of addiction will be on hand to share their story.
International Overdose Awareness Day will take place the very next day, on Aug. 31. The aim of the global event is to raise awareness of the dangers of overdosing and reducing the stigma attached to a drug-related death. The event also acknowledges the grief felt by families and friends who remember those who have felt the effects of death or permanent injury as a result of a drug overdose.
For more information on the Overdose Awareness barbecue and health fair, visit familytransitionplace.ca.