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Reporting, analysis and community stories from Downtown Eastside.
Hydromorphone’s Role in BC Evolves Beyond Its Intended Purpose
British Columbia’s response to its deadly overdose epidemic has been nothing short of revolutionary. Programs like MySafe in Downtown Eastside and tablet injectable opioid…
Roll for Warmth Brings Vital Winter Aid to Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside
Elliot Way’s “Roll for Warmth” initiative has been a beacon of hope for over a decade during Vancouver’s coldest months. Founded with the simple…
The Peculiar Tale of 28,000 Missing Naloxone Doses in Vancouver
A public notification from the College of Pharmacists of BC has ignited heated discussions across Vancouver. At the center of the uproar is a…
Public Drug Use and Decriminalization Collide in British Columbia
In January 2023, British Columbia made history by decriminalizing small amounts of certain illegal drugs for personal use, marking a significant shift toward a…
British Columbia’s Approach to Homelessness Needs an Overhaul
Homelessness has become an inescapable reality in Canada’s urban centres, with tent encampments occupying parks, streets, and public spaces. While these encampments have sparked…
Harm Reduction Barriers Facing Youth in British Columbia
Harm reduction in British Columbia has led the charge against substance-related harm. Yet, the province’s youth—some of the most vulnerable among those who use…
Multidrug-Resistant Shigella Spreads Among Vancouver’s Homeless Population
Shigella, a disease typically linked to poor sanitation in developing countries, is now thriving in the heart of Vancouver. A recent study on multidrug-resistant…
October Marks First Drop in Overdose Deaths in BC Since 2020
For the first time since 2020, British Columbia has recorded a notable decline in overdose deaths, with 155 fatalities in October 2024—a 9% decrease…
Involuntary Care in British Columbia—Progress or Premature Gamble?
British Columbia’s government has unveiled a controversial plan to expand involuntary care for individuals facing severe mental health and addiction challenges. Premier David Eby…
The Silent Toll of Maternal Overdose Deaths in Canada
Maternal health has long been a cornerstone of public health policy in Canada, yet an unsettling gap persists in how we address maternal deaths…
HOLD ON LET GO 2025: A Celebration of Boundaries Broken
As the air turns crisp in early February, Vancouver’s artistic heart will beat louder than ever with the return of HOLD ON LET GO,…
Withdrawal of Police Support Raises Questions About BC’s Decriminalization
Police associations are stepping back from supporting BC’s decriminalization pilot, citing public safety concerns and increasing disorder in communities. The withdrawal of backing from…
