Recovery

As we approach the end of another year and the holiday season, many families in Canada will experience the heartache of celebrating without a loved one who has died from a drug overdose. News stories often highlight addicts living in homeless encampments, prompting debates about whether this should be allowed. However, as a society, we must ask ourselves what actions we are taking to address this issue. Every person living on the streets is someone's son or daughter. Despite the poor choices they may have made, they are still our children and need our support.

Drug addiction is not something we can turn a blind eye to. We need to advocate for anyone suffering with an addiction and treat them with compassion and kindness.  Often times addicts are living on the street, and they need shelter, food and support, so that they can feel safe and cared for.  Drug dependency may manifest as a result of personal injury, excessive opioid prescriptions, job loss, challenges with mental health, abuse, or the inability to afford housing.    

When Joeriaknits began in 2021, I pledged to bring awareness to the addiction crisis in Canada, as well as donate 20% of the profits to a charity that helps those affected by addiction.  This year, I am donating $1,500 to the Salvation Army’s Nine Stories of Hope for their tireless work helping addicts in Vancouver's downtown Eastside.   I am grateful to everyone who supported Joeriaknits in 2022 by purchasing items from our shop, which made this donation possible.

Drug overdoses are out pacing Covid deaths in Canada and getting worse due to the pandemic.  So, this year I am supporting the Salvation Army's Nine Stories of Hope in Vancouver BC with a donation for the construction of a new drug treatment facility.  Thanks to everyone who has supported my small business in its first year of operation.  It's been such a pleasure !