A local, grassroots group is hosting a vigil at Spirit Square this weekend in response to several deaths in the community related to the toxic drug crisis.

In recent weeks, Campbell River has lost 11 more community members to the ongoing crisis. 

Sunday’s gathering is organized by Crash Harm Reduction. In a post on Facebook, the group says it is a space “to come together in grief, love, and solidarity, to honour those who are no longer with us, and to hold one another through the ongoing heartbreak of this crisis that continues to take lives from our community.”

The vigil will include cultural supports, songs, and opportunities to share words, memories, or offerings. All are welcome to bring a photo, flowers, or small offering for the memorial table. There will also be space to write messages of remembrance.

Campbell River’s Community Action Team is helping to promote the event. Later this week, the Action Team will recognize five individuals who have completed the necessary education and training to become certified as Peer Support Workers.

The Community Action Team says this cohort of People with Lived and Living expertise in substance use dedicated themselves to extensive and intensive learning, studying and connection because of their desire to support their friends and family and to give back to their community.

One of the graduates, Shauna, says being part of the team has changed her life and now allows her to help change others’ too.

There will be a graduation ceremony and celebration on Friday (10 am) at the Vancouver Regional Library on Shoppers Row.