Opioid-related drug toxicity deaths in Ontario shelters

People experiencing homelessness are disproportionately impacted by the drug toxicity crisis and a new report looks closely at the resulting opioid-related toxicity deaths taking place in Ontario’s shelter system. This webinar is being held to launch the report, produced by the Ontario Drug Policy Research Network and Public Health Ontario, alongside community organizations and people with lived and living experience. 

During the webinar, speakers share a summary of findings, as well as implications for policy and practice. This is followed by a discussion among community-based organizations and people with lived experience on how the report’s findings can help inform program improvements, as well as services and supports in shelters across the province. Speakers provide strategies that can guide harm reduction interventions, improve access to healthcare and help prevent avoidable deaths from substance use in shelters.

Moderator:

• Zoë Dodd, MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions; Unity Health Toronto

Speakers:

• Tara Gomes, Ontario Drug Policy Research Network
• Jason Sereda, DIY Community Health
• James Delville, The Neighbourhood Group Community Services
• Hayley Smuts, The Neighbourhood Group Community Services
• Jase Watford, Lived Experience Advisory Group; Ontario Drug Policy Research Network
• Brett Wolfson-Stofko, Homes First Society