Following an emergency meeting just last week, the Windsor-Essex Community Opioid and Substance Strategy (WECOSS) has come up with a plan to address the growing problem of substance use in the region.
The 32 community partners that make up WECOSS met in the aftermath of a high number of overdoses in the preceding days. That meeting resolved that stronger coordination, faster action, and more support for those affected by substance use were needed.
The new plan builds on the work WECOSS began in 2018, when programs like WEC Connect and the Opioid and Substance Use Notification System were introduced, and access to naloxone was expanded.
"Over the years, WECOSS has evolved into a truly community-driven strategy," said Director of Public Health Programs at the Windsor Essex County Health Unit, Eric Nadalin.
It includes expanded prevention and education efforts for youth, new supports for parents, and training to help adults who work with young people. New harm reduction projects will reduce stigma and create more opportunities for those with lived experience to share their knowledge.
"This plan shows what can happen when a community works together. People from many backgrounds shared their ideas to build a plan that is caring, fair, and focused on helping everyone in our community feel safe, supported, and able to get help when they need it," said CEO of the Canadian Mental Health Association - Windsor Essex County Branch, Nicole Sbrocca, who also serves as co-chair of WECOSS.
The plan serves as a roadmap for the next four years as WECOSS partners continue to work together to prevent substance-use harms, support people and families, and respond quickly to emerging issues, like the recent surge in overdoses.
