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Dear MSTH members, In a political and socioeconomic climate that often feels bleak it can be difficult to find hope, especially as we witness governments backing away from lifesaving harm reduction approaches in favour of solutions which are not evidence-based and which we know will not stop the harms and deaths from the toxic drug supply. Yet, in spite of this, many in our communities continue to fight for the policy and system changes and the compassionate, culturally sensitive and rights-based care that are so desperately needed; often while carrying deep pain, trauma and the grief of loved ones lost and harmed. This is precisely where I find hope. I see it in our advocates and members across the country who continue to show up – supporting one another, writing letters, giving interviews, organizing marches, standing in protests and speaking truth even when it hurts. While these actions may seem insignificant against the backdrop of all that is wrong in this world, each action, no matter how small, carries the potential to open minds, shift the narrative and build momentum for positive change. As my father recently reminded me, the power of love and the actions of people committed to expressing love and goodness in their lives bring about change. This is Moms Stop the Harm; courageously and persistently expressing love and goodness by pushing for change, in honour of our loved ones, with the unwavering belief that each and every life is worth fighting for. The support that Moms Stop the Harm provides through our Healing Hearts and Holding Hope programs is powerful and cannot be under-estimated. The strength of these programs lies in the people behind them; our facilitators, program administrators and staff, and we extend our heartfelt thanks to all who contribute their time, expertise, and compassion. We are deeply grateful to everyone who makes this work possible. As we move forward into 2026, we wish each of you continued hope, and the quiet and powerful knowledge that when your support or advocacy efforts touch even one life, you are making a meaningful difference.
Ruth Fox
Board Secretary and Ontario Director
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