RAN Talk - Jennifer Hawkins & Kim Friesen (PAST)

Join us on February 29th at RAN Interchange (45466 Yale Road W)
Event starts at 7:00PM (doors will open at 6:30PM)

The opioid epidemic continues to have tragic effects in Chilliwack, and the Fraser East.  From January to the end of August 2023, there have been 115 fatal overdoses in our region and 37 in Chilliwack alone. The highest percentage of fatal overdoses are taking place in private residences as a complex variety of factors influence people to use illicit substances in private. Jennifer will share research on some of the factors leading to this as well as practical strategies that can be effective in reducing deaths due to unwitnessed fentanyl poisoning. 

The event is free of charge, however, donations are welcomed at the door or online here. (please “add comment” and indicate RAN Talk). Please ensure that you reserve your seat as seating is limited.

Jennifer Hawkins works in the action-oriented intersection of research and community development. In her role as Senior Project Manager, Community-based Research at UBC's Centre for Advancing Health Outcomes, she engages with multiple levels of stakeholders towards transformative change in the context of the illicit drug poisoning crisis.

Kim Friesen has been walking with people, both in recovery and in active addiction, housed and unhoused, for 20 years. She is currently providing outreach services at an OAT clinic in Abbotsford. While her work experience has taken her to a number of different frontline positions, her favourite title remains “street mom”, loving and advocating for the most marginalized members of our community. Kim also has lived experience supporting a loved one at high risk of overdose during our current toxic drug crisis.