Communities across Hastings and Prince Edward Counties are coming together to recognize International Overdose
Awareness Day (IOAD). This year’s theme, 25 Years On. Still Needed., highlights the ongoing
impact of drug poisonings and the continued need for awareness, compassion, prevention, and
support for individuals, families, and communities affected by substance use.
The Canadian Mental Health Association Hastings Prince Edward, in collaboration with local
partners, will host events across the region on August 26 and August 31, 2026. These events
provide opportunities for community members to come together in remembrance, learn about
overdose prevention, access to local resources, and help reduce stigma associated with
substance use.
“International Overdose Awareness Day provides an opportunity to remember those we have
lost, support those who are grieving, and raise awareness about the impact of substance use in
our communities,” said Lisa Ali, Chief Executive Officer, CMHA HPE. “Together, we can reduce
stigma, promote understanding, and connect people with the support they need.”
Community IOAD Events – August 26 and 31, 2026
Wednesday, August 26, 2026
• Centre Hastings – Peer Support Centre, 56 Russell Street, Madoc from 10:00 AM to 12:00
PM
• Bancroft – Recreation Centre Baseball Diamond, 103 Newkirk Boulevard, Bancroft from
2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Monday, August 31, 2026
• Picton – Giant Tiger Parking Lot, Elizabeth & Main Street, Picton from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM
• Quinte West – Belleville and Quinte West Community Health Centre, 69 Catherine Street,
Trenton from 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM
• Belleville – Empire Square Parking Lot, 321 Front Street, Belleville from 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Naloxone training and information about community support will be available at all events.
For full event details, visit cmhahpe.ca/25-years-on-still-needed-2026-international-overdose-awareness-day-events/.
These events are made possible through the contributions of many
community partners.
