A new report by the Ontario Drug Policy Network (ODPRN) and Public Health Ontario paints a grim picture: opioid-related deaths in the province’s shelters more than tripled during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The data is stark. Between January 2018 and May 2022, researchers identified 210 such deaths in shelters. Only 48 occurred before the pandemic, while a staggering 162 were recorded afterwards. Toronto Public Health saw the highest number (62) followed by Ottawa and Hamilton.

These deaths expose a crisis with deep roots. Dr. Tara Gomes, a report investigator, blames a “litany of factors” including:

• Unregulated Drug Supply: Border closures disrupted the drug trade, leading to a more unpredictable and dangerous supply laced with fentanyl and other substances.
• Shelter System Strain: The pandemic’s shift to hotel-based shelters often lacked proper training and resources for harm reduction.
• Understaffing: Reliance on part-time and temporary staff meant less continuity of care and support.
• Punitive Drug Policies: A history of punishing drug use in shelters isolates users and discourages them from seeking help.

The report highlights the dangers of using alone. Only 1 in 7 shelter overdose victims had someone present, compared to 1 in 4 for opioid deaths overall.

Brett Wolfson-Stofko, from Homes First Toronto, emphasises the role of a safe supply: “People don’t know what they’re using and how much.” He highlights the importance of harm reduction measures like naloxone training, on-site pharmacies for addiction medication, and easy access to clean needles and supplies.

The report also explores a success story. Timmins, Ontario, saw zero shelter overdose deaths in the pandemic’s early years due to increased funding for staff, outreach, and harm reduction. However, funding cuts in 2022 coincided with a rise in stigma and a decrease in harm reduction programs. Timmins’ first safe consumption site, opened in 2022, is now set to close, raising concerns about a further increase in deaths.

This report underscores the urgent need for a multi-pronged approach:

• Increased access to safe supply programs.
• Robust harm reduction initiatives across all shelters and service providers.
• Adequate funding and training for shelter staff.
• A shift away from punitive drug policies towards a focus on support and harm reduction.

The crisis in Ontario shelters is a stark reminder of the devastating impact of unsafe drug use and the importance of evidence-based solutions to save lives.

Source

TVO