The toxic drug crisis continues to claim lives in B.C., with at least five deaths reported daily. Nearly nine years after the province declared a state of emergency over fentanyl-related deaths, efforts to combat the crisis remain ongoing, but questions about their effectiveness persist.

In light of this, Peers Victoria will host the second event in its three-part speaker series, B次元官网网址淥ut of HarmB次元官网网址檚 Way: Insight, Innovation, and Action to End the Toxic Drug Crisis,B次元官网网址� on Feb. 26. 

The event will feature discussions on the region's targeted services aimed at reducing the harm caused by B.C.B次元官网网址檚 toxic drug supply and the evidence supporting these efforts.

The admission-free series provides an opportunity to explore a complex issue that has led to over 21,000 deaths across the province since 2016.

The afternoon will begin with keynote addresses from Dr. Ashley Heaslip, Island HealthB次元官网网址檚 medical director for addiction medicine, and community leader Trevor Botkin. 

Frontline workers will also take the stage to share insights on their work, including efforts from Doctors for Safer Drug Policy, Housing Overdose Prevention and Peer Services, and the Harbour Safe Consumption site, among many other groups.

The second part of the event will focus on the evidence behind harm reduction strategies. 

The event will be held at the First Metropolitan Church (932 Balmoral Rd.), from 3 to 6 p.m., and is free to attend.

The final event in the series will take place on March 26, from 2-5 p.m., focusing on recovery and treatment.

For more information, visit