What We Do

Here’s How We are Making A Difference:

1. Prevention:

Education and awareness are key to preventing overdose deaths. We conduct community outreach programs, workshops, and public campaigns to inform the public about the risks of substance use, the signs of addiction, and how to prevent overdoses. Our goal is to equip individuals, families, and communities with the knowledge and tools they need to protect themselves and others.

Alberta Statistics:
In Alberta, the overdose crisis has reached alarming levels. Since 2020, the province has seen a dramatic increase in overdose deaths:

• 2020: 1,328 overdose deaths

• 2021: 1,771 overdose deaths

• 2022: 1,811 overdose deaths

• 2023: 2,051 overdose deaths (and counting)

These numbers underscore the critical need for education and preventive measures in our communities.

2. Support:

We understand that addiction affects not just the individual, but also their families and the broader community. The Purple Chair Project offers a range of support services designed to help those struggling with addiction, as well as their loved ones. Our peer-led support groups provide a safe space for sharing experiences and finding hope. We also offer counseling services and distribute naloxone kits—life-saving tools that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose.

Alberta Statistics:
The need for support has never been greater. In Alberta, more than 70% of opioid-related deaths in recent years have occurred at home, often with no one present to administer life-saving assistance. This is why our support services and naloxone distribution efforts are so crucial.

3. Advocacy:

We advocate for policy changes and increased resources to better address the overdose crisis. Our advocacy work includes engaging with policymakers, healthcare providers, and other organizations to push for improved access to treatment, reduced stigma, and the adoption of harm reduction strategies. We believe that through collective action, we can create lasting change and save lives.

Alberta Statistics:
Despite the growing crisis, Alberta’s spending on addiction treatment and harm reduction remains insufficient. We are fighting for a more robust response from government and healthcare providers to meet the escalating needs of our communities.