**PORCUPINE HEALTH UNIT NEWS RELEASE**

The Timmins & Area Drug Strategy (TADS) Working Group, led by the Porcupine Health Unit, is inviting the public to join in their first Community Clean-Up Day “We’re collaborating with a group of community organizations to make the Timmins core a cleaner and safer place to live,” says Christianne Blain, Harm Reduction Outreach Worker from the Porcupine Health Unit. “This take action event has many opportunities for volunteers throughout the city,” says Blain.
The whole community is invited to participate at the Clean-Up this Saturday morning (June 1). Registration starts at 8 a.m. at First Baptist Church located at 100 Second Avenue, which will also be the site of a wind-up BBQ and information session for all volunteers after the event.

According to Jason Sereda, Executive Director of Living Space,

“It has been amazing to see the community rally around TimminsGetClean again this year. I’m looking forward to the events on Saturday and to meeting new community members engaged in making Timmins a healthy and safe community.”

Sereda says the day will begin with registration and announcements at First Baptist Church, followed by volunteers being assigned an area in our downtown and park areas. “Project coordination like what is being demonstrated with TimminsGetClean is key to the success of this event,” he adds.

Community members participating in the clean-up activities should know how to properly dispose of needles. Needle safety training will be provided on site and throughout the day. All groups or businesses registered for the event will receive free clean-up supplies, a reusable water bottle, educational materials and appropriate safety training.
Registration for the event can be completed online through Porcupine Health Unit’s website (https://phu.fyi/clean-up). Registration forms can also be picked up at all collaborating community partners. When completed, they should be emailed to christianne.blain@porcupinehu.on.ca or dropped off at the Porcupine Health Unit offices at 169 Pine Street South.

Filed under: Local News