Kawartha Lakes recognizes International Overdose Awareness Day

Kawartha Lakes - The Haliburton, Kawartha Lakes, Northumberland Drug Strategy team and the City of Kawartha Lakes will recognize International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) on Monday August 31, 2026. 

A flag-raising ceremony will take place at 10:30am at Kawartha Lakes Police Service, 6 Victoria Avenue North, Lindsay.

International Overdose Awareness Day is the world’s largest campaign to end drug poisonings. It brings communities together to remember those who have died and support the people affected by substance use, without stigma or judgment. 

The 2026 theme is “25 Years On. Still Needed.” It marks 25 years of remembering those who have died, supporting those who grieve and taking action to save lives. 

“No family should carry this grief alone,” said Mayor Doug Elmslie. “By speaking openly about substance use and drug poisonings, we can build understanding, reduce stigma and help save lives.” 

An unregulated and toxic drug supply continues to cause serious harm in communities across Canada. International Overdose Awareness Day encourages open conversations about proven ways to prevent drug poisonings, reduce harm and support recovery. In 2023, 24 lives were lost to opioid-related poisoning in Kawartha Lakes. Behind every number is a person, a family, and a community affected.

“The toxic drug supply continues to take lives in our communities,” added Elmslie. “We must respond with care, proven solutions and support that is free from stigma.” 

Drug poisonings can happen to anyone. They can be fatal or non-fatal, but they are preventable. Education, timely care, community support and life-saving tools can reduce harm and save lives. 

To learn more about International Overdose Awareness Day, visit overdoseday.com. 

Flag-raising ceremony 

• Date: Monday August 31, 2026
• Time: 10:30am
• Location: Kawartha Lakes Police Service, 6 Victoria Avenue North, Lindsay 

Learn about overdose prevention on the IOAD website.