The Editor:
Re: 38 deaths in New West in 2023 attributed to unregulated drugs (Jan. 24, 2024)
I read this recent New Westminster Record article with interest and heartbreak, which draws attention to the ongoing crisis caused by the toxic unregulated drug supply.
The criminalization of drugs has resulted in overdose becoming the leading cause of death in B.C. for people aged 10 to 59.
As someone who recently moved to New Westminster with my family, I am encouraged by the city’s recent announcement of an evidence-based pilot project to address the crises of homelessness, mental health and substance use.
The pilot project will include a new crisis response team to address community requests and complaints, and support people with needs related to these three crises.
The city's Peer Assisted Care Team (PACT) is another excellent evidence-based initiative that will help to keep people who use drugs safe.
As a society, we must move toward drug regulation to address the key cause of overdose deaths, and away from policing and criminalization of people who use drugs.
The lives of our community members depend on it.
- Jen Metcalfe, New Westminster
