August 31 marks International Overdose Awareness Day, a time to remember and honour the lives lost to overdose, acknowledge the grief experienced by families and communities, and raise awareness about overdose prevention. It is an opportunity to reduce stigma, promote understanding, and recognize that every life lost represents a person, a story, and loved ones left behind.

At DSSMSSAB, we support a coordinated, community-based response that prioritizes harm reduction, access to housing and support services, mental health and addictions care, and collaboration among community partners. Together, we can help build safer, healthier, and more compassionate communities for everyone.