The Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation Chief and Council have declared a state of emergency.
They say it relates to the opioid crisis impacting Nawash residents on and off reserve.
A release says, “Opioid-related harms, overdoses, and deaths have reached crisis proportions with Nawash members as addiction rates have increased rapidly over the last few years and as the growing presence of fentanyl and carfentanyl in the unregulated drug supply has infiltrated Canada.
“Despite increased efforts in social and outreach programs, harm reduction strategies and education in Neyaashiinigmiing, the overdose and mortality rates for this First Nation continue to be much higher than the rest of the population in Ontario. The complex health and social issues attributed to drug use continue to devastate individuals, families, front-line workers as well as the community.
“Outside the reserve, Grey Bruce has established support services for the immediate area including a Mental Health Crisis Line, Withdrawal Management Clinics, Addiction Treatment Centres, as well as Mental Health and Addiction Services which on and off-reserve members also have access to.
“Chief and Council, Neyaashiinigmiing Police, Chippewas of Nawash Health and Wellness, Social Services, and Native Child Welfare programs are making an emotional plea to acquire more services, resources, and access to support and funding to help with this crisis impacting their community and members.
“Nawash has also issued a declaration letter to the Provincial Emergency Operations Centre (PEOC). PEOC is tasked with facilitating the provision of the appropriate services to emergency situations that are impacting communities.”
