Supporting Families Through BC's Drug Crisis
As British Columbia marks the eighth anniversary of its public health emergency declaration, Lumara sheds light on an often-overlooked aspect of the crisis: the profound grief endured by families left behind in the wake of toxic drug deaths.
With a sharp rise in families seeking support, Lumara’s Camp Kerry has witnessed a staggering increase in attendees impacted by drug-related deaths—from just 5.5% in 2021 to 27% in 2023, equating to one in four families.
Behind these statistics lie stories of immense pain and resilience. Twelve-year-old Abby Bocking Ried and her mother, Kimberly, recently shared their journey with Lumara on Global News, advocating for better support for children like Abby, who lost her father to toxic drugs.
Right now there’s thousands of children and families who are struggling amid the unexpected death of a loved one, and they are overwhelmed by sorrow and they’re not able to find the support and resources that they need to navigate their trauma and grief.
The demand for Lumara’s services exceeds available resources. Last year, 76 grieving families were turned away from Camp Kerry due to capacity constraints, underscoring the urgent need for expanded support networks.
As BC continues to grapple with an average of seven deaths daily from toxic drugs, Lumara stands as a beacon of hope, offering a safe space for families to heal and find strength in community.
Amidst the ongoing crisis, let us not forget the unseen victims—the children and families grappling with profound loss. Together, we can amplify their voices, advocate for expanded resources, and ensure that no one faces grief alone in the shadow of addiction. Lumara’s work is a testament to the power of Love, Compassion, and Kindness in the face of adversity, offering a ray of light in the darkest of times.