Lakelands Public Health Continuing to Work Collaboratively on Drug Poisoning Crisis
Lakelands Public Health recognizes the significant role community organizations play in supporting the health and wellbeing of residents across our region.
We are aware of the recent announcement regarding the loss of funding for Consumption and Treatment
Services programming delivered by Fourcast in Peterborough. Programs that provide harm reduction
services and pathways to treatment are an important part of a comprehensive public health approach to
addressing substance use and the ongoing drug poisoning crisis. Without alternate funding, it is anticipated that the Peterborough CTS will close.
Lakelands Public Health acknowledges and thanks Fourcast for the important work they have done, and
continue to do, to support individuals who use substances by providing access to services, treatment
connections, and compassionate care. Community-based programs such as these can help reduce harms,
prevent overdose deaths, and connect people with the supports they need.
In a province where the rates of drug use have continued to rise significantly since 2016, Consumption and Treatment Services are one of the key harm reduction methods that have been highly utilized by the public.
Between January 2023 and August 2024, Peterborough’s Consumption and Treatment Services’
site recorded over 15,000 visits and successfully managed 104 drug poisonings without a single fatality.
In December 2025 alone, 896 individuals (including repeat visitors) used the site in Peterborough; 28 per cent of these visits were for services other than the consumption of drugs, such as substance use support and treatment, housing, health services, and mental health resources.
Continuity of services that support people who use substances is an important component of protecting
community health, particularly at a time when many communities continue to experience the impacts of
the toxic drug supply.
Lakelands Public Health will continue to collaborate with local drug strategies to understand the impacts of this change and to support individuals who may be affected.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
