I am a concerned citizen for Saskatchewan and this issue is personal to me because we all know someone who uses drugs. It's a harsh reality that we can't ignore.

The January 18 announcement that the Government of Saskatchewan will no longer fund the distribution of lifesaving harm reduction supplies or education materials for safer substance use is deeply troubling. Additionally, this policy change restricts the reach and role of needle exchange programs that prevent the transmission of HIV and other blood borne infections. We are writing to express our collective concern with the downstream effects on both Saskatchewan's healthcare system and the health of Saskatchewan residents. We call on the Provincial Government to reverse this decision.

Harm reduction services are vital in our community. They not only provide sterile needles but also offer counseling, testing, and other health services that help individuals struggling with drug addiction. According to the Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, harm reduction strategies can significantly reduce drug-related harms such as HIV transmission rates (Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research).

Further, Canada’s Source for HIV and Hepatitis C Information states the distribution of supplies, like sterile pipes, is an “evidence-based approach to reducing a range of preventable harms.” Distributing a range of harm reduction supplies not only “meets community needs but can reduce the transmission of hepatitis C and HIV, as well as ensure safer substance use.” 

The current policy change does not just affect those who use drugs; it affects us all. It puts our public health at risk and increases healthcare costs due to preventable diseases spread through shared needles.

We urge the Saskatchewan government to reconsider this decision. We need comprehensive harm reduction services in our province more than ever before - they save lives and protect public health.

Please sign this petition if you believe in supporting some of the most vulnerable members of our society rather than marginalizing them further. Let's show that we stand together as a community against these harmful policy changes.