On August 24th, the Sanghera family hosted their 3rd annual overdose awareness event at Mill Pond Park in honour of their son Parm, who tragically passed away from toxic drug poisoning in 2021. Parm’s mother, Sherry Sanghera, was determined to keep his memory alive while educating others about the realities of addiction and overdose. This year’s event featured guest speakers on addiction, mental health, and suicide, along with personal stories of loss. It was a chance for the community to come together, learn, and offer support to those impacted by substance use disorders.

International Overdose Awareness Day (August 31) is a global campaign to end overdose, break the stigma surrounding drug-related deaths, and provide support for individuals affected by addiction.

If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. Reach out to local resources like Fraser House Society (https://fraserhouse.org) or visit the International Overdose Awareness Day website (https://www.overdoseday.com/campaign-resources/) for more information.

Photo Credit - @photographybyb

The Purple Door program at the Mission Friendship Centre - 33150B N. Railway Ave - is now open and offering free support to the community! All are welcome to attend and access their services and resources, including harm reduction supplies, counseling, and health connections. Today’s grand opening was about raising awareness of the ongoing overdose crisis, honouring the lives lost, and highlighting their commitment to harm reduction and compassionate care.

The Mission Friendship Centre Society aims to enhance the quality of life for Indigenous and non-Indigenous people through culturally appropriate services, advocacy, and programs. It also fosters a sense of community and belonging for all who seek support.

International Overdose Awareness Day is a global campaign aimed at ending overdose, breaking the stigma surrounding drug-related deaths, and offering support to those affected by addiction. It also acknowledges the grief of families and friends remembering loved ones who have died or suffered permanent injury due to overdose.

If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. For more information, reach out to local resources such as:
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• Mission Friendship Centre - 33150 1 Ave, 604-302-3709
• First Nations Health Authority – www.fnha.ca/harmreduction
• Fraser Health crisis line: 1-877-820-7444
• Fraser Health Mental Health & Substance Use - https://www.fraserhealth.ca/Service-Directory/Services/mental-health-and-substance-use

Courthouse Creamery offers a delightful array of treats that capture the essence of summer. The shop proudly serves fresh Birchwood Dairy ice cream, known for its rich and creamy texture. In addition to ice cream, Courthouse Creamery also features delicious bubble teas, perfect for a refreshing break, and classic hot dogs, making it a one-stop destination for family-friendly fare.

Owners, Kash and Fizza, are excited to have launched this business as a true family project. Their two children work there when they’re not working on their studies, and they had a lot of input into the look of the little shop. In fact, it was their 15-year-old daughter who originally championed the business idea to her parents. “We wanted our kids to be involved in the process. This is a family place and we wanted everyone in our family to have a voice in it.” said Fizza. When asked about their goals for the business, Kash said “Our goal is to create a welcoming space where families and friends can come to enjoy some of the best treats Mission has to offer. From our locally sourced ice cream to our fun bubble tea flavours, we want every visit to be a memorable experience."
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Courthouse Creamery is located at 32818 7th Avenue, inside what used to be Mission’s historic courthouse, adding a sweet new twist to the neighborhood. The shop will be open 7 days a week from noon to 9pm, ready to serve up smiles all summer long and beyond.

THE FIFTH AVENUE ARTISTS – "GOLDEN THREADS" by Lambert, Lightburn, and Pierce is on at the Mission Arts Centre & home of the Mission Arts Council. You can catch their exhibit today until 4pm or from August 20 - September, Tuesdays to Saturdays from 12 -4pm. For more information, visit www.missionartscouncil.com

This exhibit celebrates cherished connections in local communities, with each piece featuring gold leaf, paint, or thread, reflecting the evolving artistry of these talented creators:
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Charlotte Lightburn
Charlotte’s butterfly series is a touching tribute to the matriarchs in her life, symbolizing the precious connections of life, family, and nature. Her work is layered with meaningful symbolism, capturing the beauty of life’s cycles.

Jacquie Pierce
Jacquie’s creative journey began with drawing, crochet, and sewing, skills passed down from her mother and grandmother. Today, her passion for interior design and years of experimenting with various mediums shine through in her vibrant works.

Rosanne Lambert
In her 7-piece series for Gold Threads, Rosanne explores human emotions, and the precious connections between them. Her unique style offers a fresh perspective, blurring the lines between drawing and painting.