Penticton, B.C.’s only public overdose prevention site, operated by the Penticton and Area Overdose Prevention Society (P+OPS), has been forced to park its mobile unit due to large repairs that are out of reach financially. The organization has played a crucial role in the community, contributing to a decrease in fatalities in the past year. However, with the mobile unit out of commission, the society is facing challenges in continuing to support the community in the wake of changes in legislation. The loss of their mobile site is extremely disappointing, as ensuring people who use drugs have access to safer ways of consumption is crucial to preventing fatalities.
The BC government recently announced a ban on drug use in all public places, including parks and hospitals, as part of a major overhaul of its drug decriminalization pilot project. This decision will restrict personal drug use to private homes, overdose prevention sites, and areas where people without homes are “legally sheltering.” The changes in legislation are expected to have a significant impact on the services provided by organizations like P+OPS, as it will limit the spaces where people can safely consume drugs. While decriminalization was successful in stopping the criminalization of drug users, the lack of safe spaces for consumption remains a concern.
Despite the challenges faced by the loss of their mobile site and changes in legislation, P+OPS remains committed to serving their community. The society has always aimed to move away from the mobile service model and establish a stable location that can better meet the needs of the community. While they work towards this goal, they are exploring interim strategies to continue providing services to the public. They are calling for community support in endorsing a brick-and-mortar location that can offer overdose prevention services, hygiene services, and other resources for the community.
Desiree Surowski, co-founder of P+OPS, emphasizes the importance of having areas where people who use drugs can be observed while consuming substances from the illicit market. Access to safe consumption spaces is crucial in preventing fatalities and reducing the risks associated with drug use. While the loss of the mobile site is a setback for the organization, they are determined to find alternative ways to support the community and continue their mission of providing harm reduction services. The society is hopeful that with the support of the community, they can establish a permanent location that can offer comprehensive services to those in need.
The closure of the mobile unit has raised concerns about the future of overdose prevention services in Penticton, especially in light of the new legislation restricting drug use in public places. Surowski acknowledges the challenges ahead but remains optimistic about the society’s ability to adapt and find sustainable solutions. The efforts of P+OPS have been instrumental in saving lives and reducing harm in the community, and they are determined to continue their work despite the obstacles they are currently facing. With community support and advocacy, they hope to establish a permanent location that can provide vital services to those affected by the opioid crisis.
