In June, Ontario’s Consumption and Treatment Services (CTS) and Supervised Consumption Services (SCS) teams received the 2025 Community Health Champion Award from the Alliance for Healthier Communities.
The award recognizes the dedication and resilience of harm reduction teams across the province, including those still operating and those forced to close earlier this year. Among those honoured was our own CTS team at the Integrated Care Hub—known for their compassion, courage, and commitment to equity.
“Receiving this award was a complete honour for myself and my team at CTS,” says Jennifer, Overdose Prevention Support Worker and Shift Lead. “Being at the conference with other CTS and SCS teams was emotional and unforgettable—especially being recognized onstage with my coworker and best friend, Sam.”
For Samantha, also an Overdose Prevention Support Worker at CTS, the recognition was equally moving.
“To be recognized with the Community Health Champion Award felt beyond meaningful on so many levels—as if we were finally part of a community that wholeheartedly understands why we do the work we do,” she says. “I love the people we serve. We’ve created a space that isn’t transactional like most places, but deeply authentic and compassionate.”
Beyond Misconceptions
Despite the life-saving impact of CTS, harm reduction work remains deeply misunderstood.
“Many people still think we’re enabling drug use,” Jennifer says. “But what we actually do is provide safety, dignity, and support for people who use substances.”
At the Integrated Care Hub, clients can use substances under supervision, access clean supplies, and connect with staff who genuinely care. Once trust is built, people are more likely to ask for help—and that’s when change becomes possible.
Samantha says the greatest impact comes from meeting people exactly where they are.
“So often, the people we serve get pushed to the sidelines or treated like garbage, when they are humans who deserve love, compassion, and genuine support. It saddens me to think of a life without knowing these folks—they’re absolutely incredible.”
What keeps both women going in this work is connection.
“Spending time with clients, getting to know them, and showing them love—that’s everything to me,” says Jennifer. “I give a lot of hugs.”
This award is more than recognition—it’s a reminder that behind every harm reduction program are real people, showing up with heart. To those who support harm reduction: thank you. To those still learning: please keep listening, asking questions, and challenging stigma. Lives depend on it.
