Brandon walk ‘very personal’ for addictions minister

Housing, Addictions and Homelessness Minister Bernadette Smith joined about 80 people in Brandon on Monday for a community walk to raise awareness about substance use.

Speaking in Princess Park before the walk, Smith said she lost her father to an overdose more than 22 years ago and has also lost a sister and other family members.

“So it’s very personal to me,” she told the Sun. “Community support has played an important role in helping me and family through the losses.”

The walk, which marked International Toxic Drug Poisoning Awareness Day, followed a route from Ninth Street to Victoria Avenue and onto Eighth Street before returning to Princess Park.

It was organized by Brandon and Area Gone Too Soon and Substance Use Awareness in partnership with the Manitoba Harm Reduction Network.

Network co-ordinator Solange Machado said the event was held to remember people who have died from drug poisoning while raising awareness about the ongoing impact of the toxic drug supply.

“Today is International Overdose Awareness Day or International Toxic Drug Poisoning Awareness Day, and we intend to connect people with resources and support,” Machado told the Sun before the walk. “We are gathered to go for an awareness walk, followed by a resource fair and event, just to honour those who have died too soon to drug toxic poisoning or drug overdose.”

She said the annual event typically attracts between 80 and 100 people, adding that it was a good turnout given Monday’s rainy weather.

The walk was led by Elder Susie McPherson and a women’s drum group.

Smith said the gathering was important for families who have lost loved ones to substance use.

“It’s hard for a lot of families, but it’s nice to see community members come out and support those who have lost their lives to the toxic drug supply,” she said.

“The provincial government is committed to providing supports for people struggling with substance use while also helping families dealing with loss.”

Smith said the government wants to meet people where they are and provide resources based on their needs. It is important to highlight recovery stories and the supports available to those struggling with substance use, she added.

“We really want to bring community together around this and help folks know that there is hope, that there are people that have gone into recovery and that there are people there to support them,” she said.

Participants in the walk also included Municipal and Northern Relations Minister Glen Simard, community organizations, elders and members of the public.

Simard said raising awareness about addiction and recovery remains important, and Brandon has supports available for people seeking recovery.

“We need to remain patient and remain vigilant,” he said. “Educating the public can help people understand that addiction is something many individuals are dealing with every day.”

Simard also praised the people who attended despite the weather.

“I think it’s just amazing that we’ve had this type of turnout on a rainy day,” he said.

The event concluded with the resource fair and community gathering at Princess Park, providing an opportunity to remember those lost to toxic drug poisoning while connecting residents with local supports.

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