Proclamation – International Overdose Awareness Day, August 31, 2025

Whereas the Haliburton, Kawartha Lakes, Northumberland (HKLN) Drug Strategy recognizes August 31st as International Overdose Awareness Day, the largest annual campaign to end drug poisonings and to honour, without stigma, the lives of those impacted by substance use and those who have died; and

Whereas this year’s theme, "One Big Family: Driven by Hope”, invites us to reimagine what it means to be a family: one grounded in hope, united by love, and moved to action; and

Whereas International Overdose Awareness Day brings attention to the ongoing public health crisis caused by an unregulated and toxic drug supply and calls for open dialogue and meaningful action, including evidence-based strategies to prevent drug poisonings and urgent drug policy reform; and

Whereas the campaign also acknowledges the deep grief experienced by families, friends, and communities left behind in the wake of drug-related deaths;

Now Therefore Be It Resolved That I, Warden Brian Ostrander, on behalf of Northumberland County Council, do hereby proclaim August 31, 2025 as ‘International Overdose Awareness Day’ in Northumberland County.