By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
The Government of Canada and Quebec announced $2.5 million in funding to support addiction and overdose prevention initiatives across the Eastern Townships at a Nov. 14 press conference. The funding, intended to bolster community organizations dealing with substance abuse, will primarily support CAP Estrie, which provides treatment and shelter services to individuals struggling with substance use.
Sherbrooke MP Élisabeth Brière, who spoke at the press conference located on the site of CAP Estrie, highlighted the “tragic impacts of the opioid crisis” on Canadian communities. “The consequences of addiction are devastating for families, friends, and neighborhoods,” she said, stressing the need for a comprehensive approach. Brière explained that addiction “doesn’t have a single solution,” calling for a multi-faceted response to the problem.
In an interview after the event, Brière elaborated on the drug crisis facing Quebec, warning that “what happens in the West often makes its way here.” She shared details from a recent trip to Vancouver, where she witnessed the severe toll addiction has taken on the city. “I was on the streets for just 15 minutes and saw three ambulances arrive for overdoses,” she recounted. The core issue, she added, is “the toxicity of the drugs,” particularly those laced with fentanyl and other dangerous synthetic chemicals. According to Brière, Quebec must be proactive to avoid a similar crisis, with increased funding aimed at prevention, treatment, and risk reduction.
Of the $2.5 million investment, CAP Estrie will receive over $700,000 to enhance its treatment and shelter options, according to a related release. This boost will allow CAP Estrie to expand support for individuals needing long-term care. “The services CAP Estrie offers are vital,” Brière stated. “They provide the community access to life-saving services for people who often have nowhere else to turn.” Additional funding will go to four other organizations: the Centre Jean-Patrice Chiasson, Cellule Jeune et Familles of Brome-Missisquoi, Centre Providence Granby, and Partage Notre-Dame, each of which provides critical support services across the region.