A study by the Ontario Drug Policy Research Network and Public Health Ontario found a significant increase in accidental opioid-related deaths within shelters in Ontario from 2018 to 2022, with 210 deaths recorded. The number of deaths more than tripled during the study period, particularly during the pandemic. The report underscores the disproportionate impact of the opioid crisis on shelter residents, highlighting the need for improved harm reduction approaches, overdose response, and staff training within shelters. Factors contributing to deaths included multiple substance use, fentanyl from the unregulated drug supply, and lack of intervention in most deaths. Improved access to health care, treatment programs, and housing support is urgently needed for this vulnerable population.
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Surge in fatal opioid overdoses in Ontario shelters, report finds
