Supporting First Nations‑led events, gatherings, and ceremonies to honour loved ones and strengthen overdose prevention
Each year on Aug. 31, the First Nations' Health Authority (FNHA) observes International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD), the world's largest annual campaign to end overdose. It's a day to honour those who have died, hold space for the grief of the family and friends left behind and advocate for prevention of future drug poisonings.
First Nations people continue to be disproportionally impacted by the toxic drug public health emergency compared to other BC residents. The crisis reaches far beyond people who regularly use substances. First‑time and occasional users also face the same serious risks because the unregulated (street) drug supply has become increasingly unpredictable and toxic. Strengthening awareness, addressing misinformation and ensuring people have the skills to respond in an emergency are essential steps in saving lives.
To support community-led action, FNHA is offering community-based grants of $2,000 for First Nation communities and First Nations Health Service Organizations in BC to host an event, gathering or ceremony on or around Aug. 31, 2026.
Grant funds are intended to support activities that reflect the unique needs of each community or group as they relate to the toxic drug public health emergency. Some ideas for the day could include, but are not limited to:
- Grief support or circle
- Education session/speakers
- Community meal with guest speakers
- Ceremony
- A commemorative space or design (e.g.: mural, carving, plaque, sculpture, a garden space)
- Community event where everyone is welcomed together in a safe space
- Training on how to use naloxone
- Cultural gathering to share teachings
- Create and share medicine bundles
- Candlelight vigil
- Collage of videos and pictures of those who have died
- Designate a space for a memorial
- Harm reduction conversation
Applications from First Nations communities, First Nations health service organizations, and First Nations-led organizations will be prioritized for funding.
How to Apply
Visit this link and fill out the application form on Microsoft Forms.
If you're having difficulty filling out the form, email hrgrants@fnha.ca for assistance.
The deadline is Monday, July 20, 2026, at 4 p.m.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who can apply for the IOAD Grants?
Applications must be submitted from one of the following:
- A First Nation, including a First Nations community, band of village council.
- A First Nations Health Service Organization
- An organization or agency that serves First Nations people and is a registered society
- A correctional institution
Applications from First Nations communities and First Nations Health Service Organizations will be prioritized for funding.
2. Can an Individual apply for a grant?
No. The funds cannot be distributed to an individual.
FNHA encourages people with an idea or concept to connect with a group that meets the criteria listed above.
For example, if you are part of a local peer or substance user group that wants to support a First Nations-led event to honour those who passed away from toxic drugs, this may be an opportunity to work with a local First Nations community or First Nations health service provider.
3. When can the event or initiative take place?
FNHA recommends that events or initiatives take place on Aug. 31 in honour of International Overdose Awareness Day.
Event or initiatives may also take place between Aug. 20 and Sept. 30, 2026.
If you are looking to hold an event or initiative outside this timeframe, please contact hrgrants@fnha.ca.
4. Can the funds be used for an Elder or person with lived and living experience (PWLLE) honorarium?
Yes. The funds can be used to provide an honorarium to an Elder or PWLLE for their services.
5. What cannot be covered by the funds?
Funds may not be used for:
- Prize money
- Purchasing alcohol
- Illegal purchases
Grant funds may be used for other forms of prizes, including gift cards.
6. Who can I contact for more help or to answer other questions?
For more information, email hrgrants@fnha.ca
Resources:
https://www.fnha.ca/what-we-do/mental-wellness-and-substance-use/harm-reduction-and-the-toxic-drug-crisis
https://thunderbirdpf.org/fact-sheet-harm-reduction/
https://mhrn.ca/harm-reduction
https://www.momsstoptheharm.com/
https://towardtheheart.com/
