Overdose in progress - what the fight against fentanyl looks like on the streets

CBC visited Pembroke, Ont., a place where paramedics respond to over 900 overdose calls a year and the rate of fatal overdoses per capita is twice that of Ontario overall. CBC News went along with paramedics during life or death calls in Renfrew County to see firsthand how the region's new approach to combatting the rising drug crisis works.
Have you been affected by the opioid crisis in Ontario? We want to hear from you. Tell us your story in an email to [e-mail].
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[@CBCNews]

Have you been affected by the opioid crisis in Ontario? We want to hear from you. Tell us your story in an email to [e-mail].

[@jacquelinemarie583]

This is an national emergency! We are loosing generations. This government has to look at The Mental Health Act and use it. If a person is a threat to their self, they can be formed and put in a mental health unit. From there they should be mandated to a GOVERNMENT rehab centre for a year. This does not conflict with The Charter of Rights And Freedom. The Mental Health Act overrides this. We have empty government facilities that could turned into rehab centres. Canadian government take care of your people. These people are mentally ill and I would bet that what brought them to drugs was mental illness. Example: our population suffers from a huge anxiety disorder. Canadian government..You can do better for your people. My rant for the day

[@danzig159]

Yeah, the healthcare system supplied my cousin with the opioids that killed her in Lindsay, Ontario. They should be prosecuted.

[@juliencooper177]

Here is a point. I lost a couple of friends to prescription drug use supplied by medical people. And I rode as a passenger almost daily for maybe a month in city traffic with a driver who was on prescription opioid drugs without knowing that until she told me.

[@ashsuri1289]

I was stabbed by one in toronto i got the scar for it. And the Jukie went to jail for 4 months.

[@juliencooper177]

@@ashsuri1289 Bad behaviour is why public intoxication on alcohol isn't tolerated, because things not acceptable including attacks on public can happen. How is it that public intoxication on drugs is tolerated and even allowed into some public buildings or government run public buildings while supporting these people or giving "harm reduction" to them(?) I'm guessing someone with too much alcohol can claim it or some of it is drugs and presto, no charges unless actually tested for drugs and found to be publicly intoxicated on alcohol instead.

[@OlenaBz]

This paramedic lady - what an amazing human being helping those in need with such dedication!

[@MidNightClub2000]

Notice how they're all Whites.

[@alexnadon6999]

@@MidNightClub2000why does that matter

[@Alsatiagent-zu1rx]

@@MidNightClub2000 The paramedics in small town Ontario being mostly whites should stir neither hostility nor pride. You've made a meaningless observation.

[@MidNightClub2000]

@@alexnadon6999 My reply was deleted, we're not allowed to speak the truth.

[@juniperabbott2614]

@@MidNightClub2000 it happens to all, others may not feel comfortable being on camera. for various reasons.

[@cherylgillespie1593]

This paramedic is an angel.

[@markamd1]

Thank you CBC for allowing us to comment. But I would like to say, thank you for sharing this. Truly heartbreaking and it's amazing that we have good people that care working in the force. Stay safe everyone!

[@truthsyrup5764]

I don't thank CBC at all for the mild reprieve in their censorship. They should always be open and transparent to the taxpayer that foots their bill. I won't laud them for the crumbs they throw us. There are comments I can't even make on this very video. They keep hiding them.

[@minoif5929]

I don't thank them. They should always have this level of transparency. They shouldn't exist, to tell the truth of the matter.

[@truthsyrup5764]

Comment where? They keep deleting my comments.

[@MidNightClub2000]

@@truthsyrup5764 Notice how they're all Whites.

[@billsongrapes2641]

@@MidNightClub2000 Anyone with derogatory things to say about the CBC have their comments removed. Nice level of transparency for an arm of the government I pay money for.

[@JA-mq9ti]

We have so many issues in Canada, healthcare crisis, overdose crisis, housing crisis, crime crisis etc, but priorities are not straight. This video is a great example of something that should be prioritized, but here is another example, City of Toronto wants to use resources to rename Yonge & Dundas. However shootings/carjackings continue to surge, traffic/congestion is a serious issue, and people are seriously struggling with the cost of living, all efforts must be placed to curb the violence and poverty, renaming streets should be last on the list...

[@jasonsousa4522]

Since Trudeau is was in power the country turned upside down and major increase in random violent attacks. It was never like this before Trudeau

[@PristineReviews]

you forgot the biggest issue LOL

[@JA-mq9ti]

@@PristineReviews Fentanyl crisis??

[@youstew99]

almost entirely due to unsustainable immigration rates. It's going to get way way way worse...like WAY WORSE!

[@irvingzeistman9828]

Mass immigration

[@juelz4444]

I pray everyday for people struggling. I struggled with addiction for a few years... not my proudest moments

[@user-yh5gz2qr2n]

Good bless you all for putting a face on this tragedy and despair. My son was on fentynol and on the street dying for several years. He is now working full time, paying his way in life and supporting his children. He is so grateful and we ate too He is much loved. So many people helped him by providing support.He has bipolar. He had to get to the end to move forward. Thewere there for him. We prayed and waited and did what we could until he reached out for help. He had the courage to try to change and support when he was trying Little by little, when he was off the stuff he got weller .God bless the addicts and the people who try to hepl them every day and night ❤️🙏🌿

[@peforster6725]

I'm so glad your son was able to get himself on a positive path. We must all remember how any one of us could be in that situation. Here's to one day at a time & continued sobriety.

[@kimgraham9671]

That is fantastic! Bravo to you for being supportive and your son surviving and pursuing a better life. Respect

[@freddexta3363]

Don't do drugs. Ever.

[@TowManDave00]

I drove a tow truck for over 30 years and still listen to Police, Fire and Ambulance for the Niagara Region... Sadly I hear 10 to 20 OD's a day come over the Ambulance just in the St.Catharines and Niagara Falls area... I can only imagine what the numbers in Hamilton must look like... It is heartbreaking!

[@saltchuckwest]

Thanks for your service. Politicians are using 1st responders so they don't have to try to solve this. Putting people in jail or locked wards ect is unavoidable but very politically damaging. Open air psychiatric hospital/drug scene not allowed even in Europe.

[@peforster6725]

My sister works at Mississauga General. Mental health, homelessness is bad there. So many come into the hospital, to stay warm & to be off the streets at night. Many just ask for a sandwich from the ER fridge, that has food for patients in it. There's no where for many to go. I live in Windsor, & this Spring, my husband was in the hospital downtown for 3 days. When you go into the ER doors, you now have to go through a metal detector & bags/purses are searched. That Friday night was scary in the ER. It was shocking to see policec & security presence to deal with at least two patience that appeared to be under the influence of drugs. I fear it's only going to get worse.

[@christinescorner111]

As a dispatcher now it is so disturbing the numbers. I think the public knows it’s bad. But not as bad as it is

[@SomethingAboutBeautee]

I’m actually a nurse in Hamilton and I’ve lived here my entire life! It’s pretty frightening.

[@pamelamorrisonn]

That's lots..

[@TheAlexdx7]

This lady is a saint, and should be recognized for her actions.

[@gostarsgo1980]

It's her job. She gets a paycheck for her actions

[@pinlight97]

@@gostarsgo1980you don’t get it…at all.

[@heatherhowellstaff4392]

There is a difference between a job and doing your job with heart. It's like the difference between a waiter at a restaurant just giving you food vs the waiter that goes the extra and makes your time in the restaurant to be memorable. Waiters can get monetary tips for this, but this lady gets the psychological reward​@@gostarsgo1980

[@gostarsgo1980]

​@@pinlight97 Or I live in reality. She wouldn't be doing this if it wasn't her job.

[@michelleglowala2360]

@@gostarsgo1980 RN of 41 yr. Not enough for the phyical and mental pull on an individual. Why dont you try it. You would not do it for one hour

[@piperlynne1]

Our health care system is overwhelmed by all these overdoes. It's time to cut out the drug dealers and have mandatory rehab for people who overdose or are doing crimes to support their addiction. Mental health issues should be treated and housed in supportive housing. Our government has cheaped out on us and closed all the supports for people in need. Time to add some tax dollars back to supporting these people in need.

[@Hadlyownz]

You can't force people into rehab you weirdo

[@kristazingel6630]

Thank you for saying this.

[@mattpark3135]

Mandatory rehab is unconstitutional in these circumstances in Canada. This is what makes a "Portugal model" difficult to implement here. Legalization & regulation is the ideal means, then you can force users to take warnings/service information and ensure the drug supply is clean.

[@eddietat95]

@@mattpark3135 Making rehab "mandatory" *and* constitutional is already being done, albeit at a very limited scope through provincial Mental Health Acts where the physician makes the call - the addict has to be a danger to themselves or others or they have to be at a "deteriorating condition". Here, rehab hold is enforced by law, however, MHA can only hold someone for up to 72 hours and that is not enough time to do the whole 12 step thing. Expanding it to, say, 30 days (the standard for most rehab clinic programs) would make an enormous difference. You can twist the language or interpretation of the Constitution, like Parliament does every other day, to allow for the 30 days or you can sign an Order-in-Council which basically lets you do whatever you want regardless of the Constitution. OICs are the nuclear option, but the incumbent PM has already used it dozens of times, many of them in secret.

[@piperlynne1]

@@mattpark3135 Yes it is and we all pay the price for people not getting the help they need. If their addictions lead to crime then jail and rehab in jail if they accept it. Sad there are so many broken people out there and drug dealers get wealthy selling dangerous drugs.

[@susielifts]

If only my brother and my sister had this kind of out reach for them. They’d still be here. Bless you all.❤

[@juniperabbott2614]

I'm so sorry for your loss of your two siblings, Susie.

[@sm3296]

Lori, if only there was more of you, what a beautiful soul to care like she does.

[@D.T.A1]

LORI ,The paramedic woman, is an ANGEL 😇.. GOD BLESS

[@justinwood6407]

To add to the cop saying “to do nothing, what’s going to change?” “Doing the same thing and expecting different results is the definition of insanity”

[@galegrazutis964]

Complete waste of valuable resources!

[@jenniferwilcox9759]

@@galegrazutis964 His statement is still valid.

[@ChonCopperfield]

@@galegrazutis964what would be your solution to this?

[@LollyB1963]

I thank you Lori for your dedication and hard work. I had three of my 7 brothers passed away from addiction one was my twin. You and I have the same first name. I have been thru the co dependency program and know first hand the struggles of addiction and see a lot of it in my life and in my city.I pray they all can get the help they need so badly.

[@juniperabbott2614]

I'm sorry for the loss of your brothers. ❤

[@LollyB1963]

@@juniperabbott2614 thank you

[@beckbeverley3451]

Finally realising in order to change and support things have to change. Multifaceted approach will go a lot farther then traditional answers. Im hoping lori and responders protect their hearts. Please care for yourselves. Compassion fatigue is so hard im sending love and support

[@lorricannon189]

I was shocked to see how bad the drug crisis has gotten in Pembroke & I'm sure in Renfrew County & the surrounding areas. Fentanyl is bad enough & now we're seeing the animal tranquilizers being mixed in with the drugs too.The open sores sometimes right to they're bone & it can cost them their limbs or life. It's also another added problem for police, firefighters & EMS who respond to these calls. Crime rates go up.There are medications that will help them detox without the horrendous side effects & still give them their high until they are ready to slowly be whined off the meds but it can't be done while their living on the streets. It's now societies problem bc parents are out with they're children having to watch that their child doesn't pick up a needle or step on one. No parent wants to expose their children to that or the homeless camps & all that's discarded there. It's a health hazard that should be a priority yet our Government doesn't seem to want to put money where it's needed. Schools need to start educating children about drugs starting in grade 6 bc not all parents teach their children about the effects of every drug out there & what it will do to their bodies & life. I don't know how things got so bad where so many people including the 🇺🇸 turn to drugs @ this level. To me the internet with all the social media & it's content along with IPhones seemed like people stopped connecting or getting to know there neighbors or help the community their living in. Youth bought into all what's not real when it comes to seeing certain celebrities on the internet or certain music artists. I'm glad you did this video & the great people like Lori & others trying to help & make a difference. We need more love, understanding, compassion & tolerance bc it seems like the world is a mess & we needs it! ❤Ontario, 🇨🇦 🐾

[@kimgraham9671]

The pharmaceutical company's should be building rehabs, looking into something that will help addiction instead of just putting them on methadone etc. They caused this big mess pushing oxycontins on People for everything , cramps, headaches saying it's safe when they knew better ,then government cutting them all off at once, what did they think would happen. They need to make amends for this fiasco driven by greed

[@jameshenrie]

@@lorricannon189 it is really bad ... we have seen an increase of tent encampments, people sleeping stand up and other things. All levels of government are to blame for this.

[@jameshenrie]

@@kimgraham9671 Methadone clinics are joke ... unless you live outside of town and not associate with those people with this addiction or strong family support or both. IT FAILS IN MOST OR ALL CASES.

[@peforster6725]

Thank you for making this documentary. Please see if you can show it 8n high schools throughout Ontario.

[@jameshenrie]

That is an amazing idea .... good education tool.

[@jeanniep8816]

Thank you all for sharing realties & difficulties. Thank you to all the interventionists for all that you do. Your empathy is admirable & your supportive & humanistic approach vital. Blessings & strength to all🙏

[@matterhaz2980]

Great work cbc this is some channel 4 BBC coverage. Amazing work bringing the reality of this to light on the streets. This was some awesome raw video people needed to see. If you don't know what's happening you don't know.

[@michaelweibel9891]

I may lack of compassion which most people around me probably would not agree with but I have a hard time with this. I was on the ground with nothing when my family passed away and I had nowhere to go. I put my efforts into work and became successful. It is about live decisions I believe. They made a decision and have to carry the result of their actions.

[@chanceturcotte]

I saw someone in the area break free of fentanyl and other drugs for several years now, and he is back to sinking his time into working in the trades. It's a beautiful thing to see!

[@chanceturcotte]

Congrats on your recovery.

[@martinemjt]

to those fighting addiction, don t give up. choose life!

[@stefs7141]

56 years old, what Job is she gonna do in this crumbling society? What skills? They're better off dying out there for their sake. People who are educated withought monkeys on their back can barely feed themselves.

[@suztjembijawatson3362]

This seems all about addiction and addicts but dismisses the supply and supplier. (The cause) Shut off funding the supply. Put money into recovery services, not the supply process. Just my opinion.

[@WarriorGramma]

Decent mental health care is the solution. Without it, nothing can change. People will always find a way to self medicate. Alcohol, drugs, self harm, suicide. These they will turn to if you just cut the drug supply. What they need is hope, believing in the possibility of change. The ones you see on the street lost hope, see no chance for change. Don’t even believe anyone cares. And lately it looks like they’re right. We need free and accessible mental health services. Maybe pop up walk in mental health clinics near areas most needed, like homeless camps etc. No judgement, no shame. I want every Canadian to feel worthy. Free phone access at these pop ups would be great too. Phone home and let your loved ones know you are alive.

[@anastasiaromanov3737]

just treating symptoms won‘t get you too far, legalizing drugs is the root problem

[@carmenneumann9479]

Time for u to do some research on addiction to learn something about facts

[@stewdumplings7847]

Rough take, look up the war on drugs.

[@fiver77]

A major part of the issue with treating overdoses is that responders and hospital staff don't always know what the client is overdosing from. Fentanyl? sure.. but what's it cut with? Legalizing drugs (like say marijuana) means that a government agency would need to give approval of whatever drug was sold in stores, which means that whatever the customer gets is a known quantity: you go to buy fent, you get fent… not fent + benzos or fent + whatever. A significant number of ODs come from customers simply not knowing exactly what they're taking. Legalizing drugs (or safe supply programs) takes a lot of the guesswork out of it, so that a customer can better predict what's going to happen when they dose.

[@joycecollins5796]

I am telling you arrest these drug people and put them in jail gor at least 2 years where they can get counselling and retain for jobs?? Yes when you can't look after yourselve and cause social issues you LOOSE YOUR FREEDOM!!@

[@stefs7141]

They don't even want the help. They run and hide from it were forcing them to take help while taxpayers who are depressed are waiting in massive lines for psychiatrist's. Make it make sense

[@richard_the_lion_farted]

I had a heart attack. It felt like a Cadillac SUV was parked on my chest. Other than that I was also feeling like I was dying. The person next to me was on a gurney as well, overdosed on something. When they wheeled that person off to be treated someone said that person was in more need. That said, after I was treated the Doctor said I had the "Widowmaker" (Anterior descending) coronary artery 96% blocked and it could have gone either way. To the point, People who have life-threatening injuries are having to wait because the Emergency Rooms are clogged with overdoses. While I don't think for a second that my life is more valuable than yours it pisses me off that someone who is throwing their life away still gets treated before another person with a life-threatening emergency.

[@truthsyrup5764]

I never asked for public health care, but it was here when I got here. I would much rather pay out of pocket and have free market, competing clinics, which I could peruse reviews on and choose accordingly. So I can be rewarded for my choice to eat healthy and exercise regularly.

[@kayluley3209]

well said....this is what i keep saying over and over again.....we as 'normal taxpaying citizens' are the great losers in this grand scheme of things.....drug use is a selfish crime and others have to pay the price for their egoism.....meanwhile crime soars no one is safe and the cities look like trash cans

[@WarriorGramma]

@@kayluley3209 you must not have a family member living in that high risk environment or you would know “throwing their life away” isn’t something you wake up one morning and decide is a good lifestyle choice. And trust me, it can happen to you or a loved one of yours any day. This could be your brother, son, mother, daughter.

[@CuervoLuna]

As if your dietary and lifestyle choices didn't contribute to your medical emergency?!! You've just been throwing your life away more slowly and with more frequent bad choices. I wonder how somebody who was the victim of a car accident would feel being next to you in the hospital, where you were given priority for your 'throwing your life away' one burger at a time, while all they did was drive home from work. Widowmakers don't just happen, you did that to yourself too

[@WarriorGramma]

Deep and profound appreciation for those recognizing the people behind the substance crisis. No one wants to be addicted, no one wants to be homeless. Its a mental health crisis. Drugs used to self medicate the mental health issue are killing our brothers, sisters, sons, daughters, moms and dads. These people aren’t partying, they are trying to survive. And as far as saying, get a job, would you hire any of the people in this video as they present right now? Win the addiction crisis, the number of homeless will decline. Don’t sit and judge. Use your voice to save a life. Don’t think it can’t happen to you or your family, it can!

[@marniejane88]

Completely agree

[@user-md3li7kx2z]

I request prayers for my sons, as a single mom, it is scarey, ,.

[@WarriorGramma]

@@user-md3li7kx2z I understand. Dreading that call. Your sons have prayers from me. Please add my daughter to your prayers. The most helpless I have ever felt as a mom. I am also a single parent like you.

[@WarriorGramma]

@@user-md3li7kx2z I hear you. It is very scary. And no one understands except another parent in the same situation. I am a single parent I have only one child and after a devastating loss, she began to self medicate the grief away. Comfortably numb I call it. I will never give up on her. Never stop praying. I will gladly pray for your boys as well. Stay strong and hopeful. Miracles happen every day.

[@francesfriese6780]

What an amazing generous woman! So sad. So scary It’s everywhere

[@michelleclawsey9565]

The paramedic lady is so amazing..Such a understanding community..I feel for them all .God bless I hope they all get the help they need..Sad

[@hyperfox805]

Doing anything is better then nothing. God bless those on the line trying to help these folks out. BZ.

[@TheLitman72]

Good to see first responders knowing those in the community and building relationships. This was lost and needs to make a comeback. Keep up the good work.

[@StrangePilgrim1]

Laurie/Lori is a hero. These stories are heartbreaking. Thank you for covering this crisis.

[@CritCommanda]

We used to care about each other, then the few decided their real estate profits (knowingly unsustainable) was more important than Canada's wellbeing. Being homeless opens the door to a variety of coping methods for despair, escapism, trying to sleep and ignoring starvation. It will take electing a leader who cares about the plight of Canadians, not a career politician who shrugs his shoulders and deflects at the first sign of adversity.

[@truthsyrup5764]

I hope people in real estate make more money by the government garnishing welfare checks to pay rent instead of it going towards fentanyl. Working in homeless shelters I've seen all too many instances where someone's government cheque is funding their addiction, and they end up homeless because their rent is not paid.

[@mercifulmermaidtarot2630]

If you are a first responder reading this, Thank You for caring for your communities, for facing pain, horror and sometimes v!olence, in order to help your fellow human beings. ❤

[@DavidHalverson]

The opioid epidemic from fentanyl is a problem that law enforcement is failing to deal with through arrests and mandatory detoxification. It is a burden on the emergency services who have to continuously deal with these adults suffering from a mental illness. It prevents ambulances and fire trucks from responding to real emergencies (ie., vehicular accidents, heart attacks, gun related offenses, etc.)

[@gf3473]

Excellent program, which I'm not here to critique. Rather, I'm hoping to bring an additional approach into consideration. Finland, tackled their homelessness with a program called " Housing First". There is no requirement for treatment, sobriety, or detoxing, in order to qualify. The approach being, it's difficult to get clean, and maintain sobriety, without stable housing. The level of supports offered in the housing programs are the key components for their success. This often translates into the residents seeking treatment, when their living circumstances stabilized. There's a documentary on KZbin, with a ' how Finland solved homelessness ' or similar title. It's a well presented video, interviewing municipal, state & federal partners along with other community partners explaining how their able to maintain the priority on this program regardless of the political affiliation of persons in government. Around min. 19:20 someone comments on sobriety first, being the order of importance, when tackling intersecting challenges.

[@crampdstyl1]

You may want to look at which country has the highest rate of overdose deaths in the world for addicts under the age of 25. Finland's system isn't working like you dream it is. Finland population about 5.5 million people. Isolated country. Yet overdose deaths abound

[@jameshenrie]

(IMO) You know how they have student housing for college ... they need a building like that with bedrooms and small bathroom in each room with a common kitchen and entertainment or common room space... Most of the people are on government assistance already ... pay directly to the housing agency. Maybe have an office or space so government agencies, addiction counseling, social workers whoever that can meet with them to help them.

[@gf3473]

@@jameshenrie your idea, infact IS how the " Housing First" program seems to work. It's actually an American 'initiative' but never really took roots there. It's all supportive housing, with service components delivered by various community agencies, on location in residents buildings. The programs is progressive, starting with a private room.

[@y.c.7378]

Huge, huge respect for all first responders, police, etc. Etc.

[@brendanjohanson5958]

Appreciate your guys hard work you are a very special human being thank you

[@thevintagepoet]

That lady is such an amazing police officer she does such a good job

[@joannewynn4431]

She’s an advanced care paramedic not a police officer

[@NeilScottMac]

Lori is a hero. What an amazing human

[@kimgraham9671]

I agree

[@owenwegner8503]

I was born and raised in pembroke drugs was always a problem in our town but it has got exponentially worse

[@W4ll_fl0w3r]

I have lost over 300 individuals who meant something to me in the last 5yrs... over 300 friends, family members, coworkers, classmates

[@lcote367]

Thank you for highlighting the problem and amazing people in our small city ❤

[@Angeegabs]

This is amazing reporting. Thank you ❤

[@keaton705]

Thank you to all of the first responders that see this stuff on the regular. You guys are built different!

[@estycki]

I talked to a rookie paramedic a few years ago, and he'd tell me how someone would be saved from overdose, taken to the hospital... they wake up furious that their high and drug stash were taken away. They leave and go look for more. Paramedic was a hero but completely unappreciated. Maybe some people can choose to wear a badge that says "I don't want your help" But I can't help but wonder, the only way one would want help is if there is something to look forward to when getting sober... I can't say that the most sober of Canadians working hard to keep their heads above water are that much happier...

[@jessd4048]

This is a deeply ignorant comment. So much ignorance and such misplaced judgement.

[@nearcancelled]

@jessd4048 do you work in the field? That's how it is. The person who is revived from an over dose is angry that the person ruined their buzz and wasted the drug. Sorry. That's how it is.

[@jessd4048]

@@nearcancelled I’ve been personally and professionally in this field for over 40 years. Forgot more about this crisis than you will ever know.

[@derekpam7149]

So very true saw this in Calgary non stop. They are helped they get mad they go get more drugs and overdose again. Never ending cycle the paramedics are tired

[@jessd4048]

@@derekpam7149 a majority of paramedics in Calgary detest the street involved population which was a problem before fentanyl ever hit the streets. Everyone looking for someone to blame and never recognizing the part they play in creating & *exacerbating* this disaster.

[@louisetringham5830]

This angel saving lives must be a horrific scene when she’s finds a dead body

[@glennp6413]

God bless you always you and everyone there helping out.A mazing work being done.

[@sherbournesubwaymess]

I speak from experience. If a junkie is talking, they are lying. It's a very hard lesson I learned. I'm fed up when junkies endlessly blab over their 'community' and how they would rather live in a tent with their 'friends', than access all the social services offered to them. Reality is: 'Community' (Tent city)/Friends = Place to party. Unless you change the people/environment you are hanging around with, you will never get out of your rut.

[@Sierrasfan1]

Saving even 1 life is worth it. Amazing documentary and kudos to Pembroke for trying something different! Harm reduction. Enough said. Addicts will use until they are ready so reducing harm to themselves or others is the way to go. Building trust within the community is so important and it will make a difference in the lives of those they are trying to help. Planting the seed for help even when you think it's not working. You affect people with words and actions everyday and you never know who is listening and watching. Great job Pembroke!!

[@mrhalane6393]

God bless these people😢😢😢😢😢

[@markamd1]

Amen brother!

[@truthsyrup5764]

Amen

[@resetpassword]

At 18:00 is that a bruise under her sleeve? I hope she's not going through anything. What an amazing lady. The way she talks resonates me a lot and her logic is very sound. And she's actively living in accordance with her morals/values. Very respectable.

[@JesusFreak141110]

I have a whole different level of respect for First Responders like this!!

[@alljunk4824]

What she does is important, what that team does is important. I wish we had this approach in Vancouver. One thing that was not touch on is the criminality in it. Here there's a saying that the gangs will actually supply a little be of drug to an addict if they don't see him/her for a few days just to make certain they stay addicted.

[@gostarsgo1980]

We live in a country where we can buy alcohol, cannabis and really magic mushrooms. So I can get drunk, high or even hallucinate if I want to. It's time we started implementing harsh penalties for people who are under the influence of or possession of any other narcotics not already prescribed or legally available to them. I mean harsh. 25 years to life. You don't see junkies passed out all over the Philippines or any other country that has harsh laws so we shouldn't see it here either.

[@jaiavm7128]

Ibogaine is an effective treatment for opioid addiction and it’s illegal in Canada. It breaks my heart seeing these scenes, and knowing that the most vulnerable and in need are the least likely to get access to life saving medicines.

[@UnbreakableM1nd]

There is no magic drug to treat opioid addiction. The society needs to recognize forcing rehab is the only way to recover. China (Opium War) and Japan (Post WW II crystal meth crisis) has been through this before. We are acting like we know better than what history teaches us.

[@flippgoofman1868]

Wow, CBC actually welcoming comments.

[@Predathor_poverty_metal]

Laurie is an absolute angel!

[@UnbreakableM1nd]

People need help, forced rehab is better than living like zombies and still addicted. Drug dealers should get capital punishment. Please Canadians, learn more about the Opium War, and what happened to the last Empress of China (died from addiction).

[@donnicholson3170]

We'd see better outcomes with mandatory residential rehabilitation centers than with this band-aid system we currently have. Isn't the outcome important? Right now the system is just chasing it's tail. Giving addicts drugs on the street is just cruelty.

[@tanyakam5820]

Bless the police woman for trying to help the homeless! Then when the police woman is driving she says " we are here to serve and protect". Well not all homeless are good people, so where are the police to serve and protect those of us the homeless steal from??? I come from a city where it's bad the homeless stealing and something needs to be done about that to!

[@jameshenrie]

She is an ambulance driver

[@katiecartier5153]

supported housing has also failed in the last few years 😢 it seems like the solution but it isnt.. this woman is incredible 👏

[@josecarlos11]

When are we going to force treatment??? For those that defend this madness, letting them try to help themselves is not helping them at all!!!

[@lizliz4186]

Data and previous efforts prove that forcing ppl into rehab doesn't work. Ppl like you might feel better but it doesn't work, you're only detaining ppl against their will.

[@josecarlos11]

@@lizliz4186 so what does work? We can’t just wait until they eventually overdose. That seems cruel if you ask me. There has to be something to help them get over this.

[@truthsyrup5764]

What sort of rehab? It's almost the uniform population of the homeless that have severe mental illness, that also wind up on these hard drugs. Their health outcomes would certainly be better if they were in long-term mental health facilities.

[@iunklulkbyuyg]

@@lizliz4186 A month long detox doesn't work but a two year stay in an institution would provide the time to learn to live without drugs. How many would decide to return to that life after so long? I know if my loved ones were in that situation, I would want that chance for them vs enabling. That would actually be helping.

[@megleland6320]

Some people think that addiction and the related crimes are only a big-city problem. It isn't true. It's everywhere in Canada, and can happen to people in anyone's family. The housing crisis is the other side of this double edged sword. It is hard to get clean and stay clean without stable, safe, housing.

[@shannonwood9110]

Visit Windsor, Ont. Its a mess here. 18 ODs between June 16-22. 4th major alert by Health Unit since May 22nd. I commend all services that have Frontline workers trying to help. Multiple layered problem across the country and abroad, that no bandaid solution will solve.

[@missindependent1973]

Windsor eh? Yeah, I know it well. I grew up there, left in 2015. I spiralled into addiction in Windsor…2007 -2010. I’m glad I got sober and left though. 😭

[@kimgraham9671]

​@@missindependent1973That's awesome! Good for you I am happy you are a survivor of this mess

[@user-jj8vg6sp5z]

I give the props for this lady and her team for being there but a lot of these addicts just dont stop i see it all the time these services just enable the addicts.

[@minimaxmiaandme.4971]

You really can't help people that don't want your help, wasted effort....I learnt that from my mentally ill brother. It wasn't until he said those words "help me", that his life turned around.

[@momsterzz]

This woman is a million times better person than me. I just don’t have the compassion she possesses. Where would these people be without her.

[@colbiecolbie6979]

I hope i dont need a paramedic while they are all tied up dealing with addicts that choose their path in life !

[@Coldbird1337]

This wouldn’t be necessary if we did housing first the same way its done overseas, we need a building to house them with staff on call, not dumping on private citizen only interested on making a quick buck.

[@derekpam7149]

You think they do drugs cuz they do not have affordable housing? You need to go talk to these people and hear the horrible traumas they have been thru no housing is going to help the pain they have

[@raggy369]

@@derekpam7149they are probably referring to Finlands approach. First homeless are given housing with no strings, then the people seek out mental help and sober living options. None of that is going to happen if they don’t have a secure place to live.

[@HattoriHanzo-fg8cy]

Ask a social worker what hard to house means. It means they wreck every place they are given for free.

[@Fenthule]

@@HattoriHanzo-fg8cy That's because in Canada our governments (mostly provincial) have completely GUTTED our healthcare system by cutting funding to it dramatically, meaning there's virtually no supports for those people once they're in a place. We'd need to build out and fund a robust network of mental health care and treatment centers to ever have a hope of it working - not to say I disagree with the approach, housing first is ABSOLUTELY the way forward. Not only is the it most humane but it's the most effective.

[@HattoriHanzo-fg8cy]

@@Fenthule Well I completely disagree. Treatment of addiction is the first step. Build facilities outside of the cities and when you check in you have to stay for minimum 90 days. There is food, counselling, medication, everything. Then you can have transitional housing.

[@melodymetherel5723]

This is what the beginning of wrap around services look like. We need more of those, entire communities supporting individuals needs to ensure success, regardless of what that community looks like. The thing about wrap around services is there is nothing anyone can do to be thrown from the program. No requirements, just helpful services with no strings attached. That's the only way we are going to stand a chance at fixing anything at this point. The time for action was before 2020 to prevent this..

[@andrewdigiacinto7812]

It's not working, it's getting worse. How about forced mental health to figure out what's at the root of addiction. Giving free drugs isn't the answer

[@bridgetcarrancho846]

This is so sad.

[@SeaToSkyImages]

It's so sad. I've never seen a drug just completely wipe out a segment of the population like fentanyl has. I have a friend that has been trying to get clean since 2017. Every week I'd expect an email, phone call or DM telling me he's ODed and died. He's still alive, and clean right now, but he's sobriety is so fragile. I hope he can stay clean.

[@user-pf1qx3hh4y]

Don't. Do. Drugs. Please

[@AeiSedai1976]

What is the goal here? Back on their feet means what? Housing? Sobriety? Job? I really struggle to see any of these ppl holding down a f/t job to keep the housing. So - first thing that MUST happen and should have happened years ago is revamping social assistance welfare/ODSP. these programs are literally encouraging the spiral down. We NEED to ensure that ppl on welfare can pay rent - real rent based on actual rent costs - pay for food, medical care including mental, eye, and dental. Who will hire a person to work in a store without teeth or with teeth so rotten it causes intense pain and smells so bad they can't be approached. Everything else is throwing money away until welfare program undergoes a massive overhaul.

[@derekpam7149]

We can’t afford anymore money into this actually.

[@AeiSedai1976]

​@@derekpam7149into what

[@kateparks1665]

@derekpam7149 we either pay now or pay way more later. Preventative measures are always cheaper in the long run

[@Mrs.Currie]

​@kateparks1665 Raising and caring for children properly is the best preventative measure. Social programs will always be needed to some degree, but early trauma and hardship lead people down some dark roads.

[@kimgraham9671]

​@@Mrs.Currie yes, and back in my day , social workers never checked to see how kids were doing after their trauma ended. The offender gone well problem must be gone. Left to try and fix ourselves

[@malcolmforsythe6440]

You can't get them off the drugs unless they want to be off the drugs. Yeah there could be better supports but if they don't want it they won't take it. Let them go. Stop the drain on society. Why should hard working Canadians, those that choose not to take the easy way even though their lives may be hard or suck too, have to keep paying for all these supports that aren't being used or, alternatively, being taken advantage of. Time to stop wasting on the wasted waste.

[@kateparks1665]

What is "easy" about it?

[@stefs7141]

They don't choose life so why should we try and force them

[@LollyB1963]

When you coming too Windsor it’s bad here also.. We need help too get a grip on this homeless and drugs

[@thegingercat146]

Currently in my area were struggling with "fentanyl" that's just phenacentin zero opiates. So we can't even rely on narcan. It's medics like this that help us keep people alive.

[@stacybeaubiah5622]

lets open rehab beds. lets actually off help. stop funding other countries war and focusing on our own people dying.

[@DharmYogi]

This is so sad. How does anyone get off this stuff? This is madness. Why do people take this stuff?

[@starbright1256]

Methadone

[@user-jw1yy8yp6c]

Sadly, CBC did not ask any addicts how they felt in the hour or 2 AFTER they have a fix of the drug they are addicted too. Most addicts will never stop chasing that feeling...never. One heroin add ict has been quoted as saying "If God made anything better than heroin He kept it for Himself." The withdrawal is hard but not impossible to get through.

[@deef6560]

🎯🎯🎯

[@a.r.b.421]

A complete and utter waste of taxes that are unlawfully taken from those who actually contribute to society. 🙄

[@jaimieseejaimiedo]

Shame on anyone who treats anyone like they are beneath them...

[@justinteichroeb1221]

This needs to be done in St.Thomas ontario, a city of 36,000 that never had homeless people until the drug crisis, I have lost multiple old school mates who have overdosed and died, it’s a travesty and now you can’t walk down the street without seeing, I hope we get a program like this here.

[@starbright1256]

Hamilton is thousands of addicts. Thousands

[@leeannalovestherain]

May those in pain from drugs be released from these chain of pain .Withdrawal is the problem I know this from experience it's pure hell .I do know I got myself off of those pills in 2020 yes i still deal with some physical issues from the damage they caused my body.Its suck to come down yet once you get past the first few days but after this you will start to sleep and think of other things . You can do it fight for your life giys❤❤❤❤ the dr can help with suboxone too

[@Mrs.Currie]

CBC...i used to be proud to support you...now I'm disappointed.

[@paspep]

I think i ll start living in the steet, doing drugs, getting fed everyday, getting free shelters once in a while, acces to medical care for free.....it is a better condition than working for 17$ per hour in downtown Toronto

[@joany11swatch14]

If you do nothing ….whats going to change ? If you do something…what’s going to change ? NOTHING on both cases. The answer is simple people……DON’T DO DRUGS !!! When you help a person that’s overdosed…what’s the first thing they do after they are helped…they take more drugs. And so the cycle repeats itself until they are not so lucky. What shocks me the most is their drug addict friends witness people OD and they too continue to take drugs.

[@user-nn3ii1ct7k]

It’s the loss of a generation of people

[@laurahenry1340]

Who is putting it into their head that THEY don’t choose that life??? Everyday they choose to use. Telling them that it isn’t their fault is NOT helping them, it’s enabling them to NOT take responsibility. They have a perpetual excuse to not help THEMSELVES!!! STOP LYING TO THEM, YOU ARE NOT HELPING THEM! They use the severity of their withdrawal symptoms as an excuse to not get off the drugs. Excuse after excuse IT IS THEIR OWN FAULT AND NO ONE ESLSES

[@Bammer2001]

There's one thing I don't understand. What information are we getting that says supportive community housing is $3500 a month in Pembroke?

[@jameshenrie]

One bedroom apartment (Rent), Hydro, heat, food, phone.... maybe that is the calculation for it. Simple first, last, security, and utilities

[@kristielscott7402]

I'm sorry, what are the monthly costs for one person per month to get help? I think i read it wrong.. it's terrible

[@crystal-lee9075]

8yrs in Recovery ourself🎉 my spouse became schizophrenic, closed our business of 13+ yrs & opiate addiction put us on the Street😢 the shelters are full.of regular, everyday ppl: retirees, disabled, veterans, families, many employed ❤ i met Architects, lawyers, professionals--drugs don't discriminate

[@updateapril]

"trying a totally different approach.... it's human connection" So sad that we have lost our human connection and this is what it is going to take to overcome this and so many challenges being faced in these times.

[@cogillsto]

I remember growing up, drug users and dealers who got caught with drugs would be arrested. How does one justify personal paramedics for drug users. Canada is sinking lower and lower.

[@craven5328]

And likely, those arrests did little to help stop people from using drugs again. Why keep spending money and time and resources on something that doesn't work, instead of trying something different?

[@kateparks1665]

What about using particular drugs is criminal?

[@W4ll_fl0w3r]

What I don't get is why 'safe supply' and 'safe consumption' first line of defense isn't testing kits. The government is so quick to pay for ways for people to continue using what is killing them while not providing ways to actually protect them from doin what is killing them. They say themselves that the majority of those we lose we lose to dirty drugs

[@user-xl4zf5bk6c]

Have you heard that the fastest growing fentanyl use is senior citizens who have chronic pain but can't get the meds they need due to the opioid crisis?

[@truthsyrup5764]

Why didn't CBC bother to highlight the stories coming out lately of those that have got clean in the area (led by people like Jason Severin), and the volunteers at The Grind (and St Vincent de Paul, featured in your video) that provide all the help they can give to these people, day after day, without pay? Perhaps the religious undertones to the stories might not be savory for the CBC, but the stories of Jason (and proteges, following in his footsteps), are an exciting development. The exasperated voice that declares "eff it" should not come as a surprise, to a life divorced from any meaningful superstructure supporting it. This was something Christianity once provided in the west, and especially gave hope to these downtrodden.

[@FreeJulianAssange23]

A girl I know overdosed and was on life support, as her family was preparing to say goodbye she woke up, signed herself out of the hospital and went to go and get high again.

[@rosellawerbicki]

Laurie is tireless in her fight to help these people.