**PORCUPINE HEALTH UNIT NEWS RELEASE**

Every year on August 31, International Overdose Awareness Day is recognized globally as a day to take a moment of silence to remember those who have lost their lives to overdose. The Porcupine Health Unit hosted a proclamation in recognition of International Overdose Awareness Day with the City of Timmins, CDSSAB Paramedicine, and the Timmins and Area Drug Strategy this morning.

“International Overdose Awareness Day highlights the impact overdoses have had on individuals, families, and the community. The day also tells individuals who are in recovery or who currently use substances that they are valued and respected,” said Patrick Nowak, a Harm Reduction nurse at the Porcupine Health Unit.

The Porcupine Health Unit stands with families who have lost loved ones to overdose and continues to encourage the community to show support for people who use substances.

International Overdose Awareness Day encourages everyone to talk openly about overdose, how overdose can affect anyone, and substance use. “As a community, we all play a role in improving community awareness and preventing tragic outcomes,” says Dr. Lianne Catton, the Porcupine Health Unit’s Medical Officer of Health.

Filed under: Local News