Many in Yorkton took to the streets Monday, stressing the importance of education and support in the fight against drug use and overdoses. This was part of International Overdose Awareness Day – and was the fourth annual event observed in Yorkton. The walk began at Bruno’s Place and ended at City Centre Park, where participants gathered for an Indigenous dance performance and presentations from advocates. Organizer Lisa Kroll said the walk remains necessary because addiction continues to affect people across Yorkton, regardless of background or circumstance. “There’s a huge need to help bring awareness to the community,” she said. Overdose deaths in the province were down in 2025, according to data from the Saskatchewan Coroner’s Service in January. Total suspected and confirmed deaths from drug toxicity were down about four per cent last year compared to 2024 — from 346 to 331. Yet in the last month of 2025, the coroner reported a surge in fatal overdoses, with 28 people dead from suspected drug toxicity, compared to the year before. Kroll, who works as a case plan manager at the local shelter, Bruno’s Place, said the issue is far more widespread than many realize. “A lot of people are struggling with addiction, whether it’s present at the shelter or even out in our own community,” she said. “Supports are needed, and that’s what we’re trying to bring awareness of.” This year’s walk comes just a few months after Poundmaker’s Lodge Treatment Centre’s (PLTC) withdrew its application to open two post-treatment facilities in Yorkton amid pushback from the community. Kroll explained that Yorkton’s rural location makes accessing treatment difficult. While support facilities in larger cities exist, they are often hard to get into, leaving local residents with limited options. “We do have some detox centers that work amazing with the clients that we have here, especially at the shelter,” Kroll said. “Ideally, Yorkton would have its own detox center, its own treatment center, and a recovery place for them to go.” She acknowledged that while some Yorkton residents are supportive, stigma remains. “[Addiction] is real and it needs to be brought out. It doesn’t need to be hidden anymore. It is what it is and there’s a high need [for support],” she said. Kroll hopes events like Monday’s walk will help shift attitudes and encourage more people to understand the realities of addiction and the importance of community involvement. “Support is what we need in the community,” Kroll said. “In order for people to get better and live their life, the community needs to be willing to learn.” According to Kroll there are plenty of resources that are available online. She also pointed to Turning Point, private counselling, addictions counsellors, and even TED Talks as accessible ways for people to educate themselves. She added that people may turn to the Saskatchewan Health Authority as well. The organization, along with the Yorkton Indigenous Friendship Centre and SIGN, was on the park grounds for anyone seeking help. “If we’re trying to achieve anything, it’s to bring knowledge to the community,” Kroll summarized the aim of the event. “It takes a village to help the ones that are in active addiction, that are needing and seeking help and recovery.” She hopes residents will become more comfortable engaging with the issue rather than avoiding it. “Don’t be scared. Be supportive,” she said. “Know what’s going on, take the training.”
