Moms Stop The Harm Newsletter

"This summer, we carry both grief and love. In remembrance, in resistance, in community—we honour them."
— Traci Letts, Moms Stop The Harm,

For many of us, summer once meant carefree days, family gatherings, and traditions rooted in joy. But those traditions have changed. As individuals and as an organization, our summers now carry new meaning—shaped by remembrance, advocacy, and the collective strength it takes to champion International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD). Across the country, MSTH members are leading and supporting efforts that include public education, policy advocacy, and candlelight vigils. These powerful acts of resistance and remembrance honour the lives of those we’ve lost and shine a light on the urgency of change.

And while these summer days may not be as bright as they once were, they can offer space for reflection, rest, and healing. If you can, take moments to breathe deeply, sit in nature, write in a journal, or simply allow yourself to feel without judgment. Practicing mindfulness: whether by walking slowly with intention, listening to calming music, or focusing on your breath—can help bring moments of peace in the midst of unease.

Self-care doesn’t have to be grand. It might be saying “no” when you need to, reaching out to someone who understands, or simply drinking water and getting enough rest. These small acts of care are how we begin to nurture ourselves as we carry the weight of loss.

As we approach IOAD, we invite you to take part in whatever way feels right for you—whether that’s attending a local vigil, sharing your story, advocating for change, or quietly lighting a candle in remembrance. If you're able, consider supporting or helping organize an event in your community. If you’re unsure where to start, please reach out. MSTH is here to walk beside you.

Honour your loved one by speaking their name, telling their story, and standing against the stigma and policies that continue to cause harm. Your voice and your love have power. And however you choose to spend this season, know that you are not alone. Reach out if you need support. Rest when you can. And if you’re able, extend a hand to another member who might need it too. This is how we carry one another through.

To our members, thank you. Your continued presence, your courage, and your compassion sustain this movement. We are deeply grateful for the strength we find in one another, and for the support we offer each other—especially when the days feel long and heavy.

With love and gratitude,

Traci Letts

Chair, Board of Directors, Moms Stop The Harm

MSTH Announcements

International Overdose Awareness Day

International Overdose Awareness Day is approaching on August 31. A time for remembrance, connection, and collective action. Across the country, MSTH members are planning heartfelt events in their communities, and we’d love to help amplify your efforts.

If you're organizing an event this year, please send us the details so we can share your event with our national network of families and allies. If you’d like MSTH brochures to support your gathering, just reach out by August 11 at info@momsstoptheharm.com and we’ll make sure you’re supported.

We also encourage you to visit www.overdoseday.com to register your event and access meaningful resources, including posters, graphics, and other helpful materials.

Together, our voices carry farther.

Looking for Facilitators

Would you like to facilitate a support group in your community? We are looking for volunteers to facilitate meetings throughout Canada, specifically:

Holding Hope:

Golden, BC
Revelstoke, BC
Merritt, BC
Osoyoos, BC
Edmonton, AB
Lethbridge, AB
Regina, SK
Winnipeg, MB
Toronto/GTA, ON
Thunder Bay, ON
Ottawa, ON
Montreal, QC
St. John's, NFLD

If you are interested in learning more about facilitating a Holding Hope group, please contact us here

Healing Hearts:

Cranbrook, BC
Kimberley, BC
Trail, BC
Grand Forks, BC
Vernon, BC
Penticton, BC
Surrey, BC
New Westminster, BC
Langley, BC
Richmond, BC
North Vancouver, BC
Prince George, BC
Burnaby, BC
Thunder Bay, ON
St. John's, NFLD

If you are interested in learning more about facilitating a Healing Hearts group, please contact us here.

Upcoming Events

MSTH Members Healing Hearts Grief Yoga

Join Joanne Gallacher on July 31 at 5pmPT, 7pmCT, 8pmET in awareness, expression, connection and surrender.

No prior yoga experience is required. A gentle chair yoga session using movement, breath and sound. Experience emotional liberation from the pain of loss and reconnect back to love.

Register Here

MSTH Connects: Grandparents Raising Grandchildren

Join us on August 9 at 1pm PT, 3pm CT, 4pm ET for a special virtual event dedicated to grandparents who are raising their grandchildren due to substance use-related harms. Whether you're stepping in after the loss of your child or supporting your grandchild while their parent is unable to provide care, you are not alone.

This session will provide a safe, supportive space to hear from other grandparents raising their grandchild and connect with others who understand the unique challenges - and deep love - of this journey.

Register Here

Shouldering Each Other Up Amidst Atrocity & Outing Enraged Grief

In a time of deep political division and preventable loss, how do we mourn, resist, and care for each other?

You are invited to a powerful webinar hosted by Moms Stop The Harm, featuring Vikki Reynolds, PhD and Tara Taylor—two longtime advocates and community leaders working at the intersection of grief, justice, and care. Join us on September 5 at 9amPT/12pmET.

This event is a fundraiser for MSTH and is by donation (suggested $50-100). Scholarships available to those who may find the cost a hardship

Register Here

Resources & Support

Are you looking for support? Find a local group near you….

You are not alone.

Healing Hearts is a free bereavement support group specific to those grieving the loss of a loved one due to overdose or substance-use related harms.

Holding Hope Groups are peer-led support groups, offered at no cost, for Canadian families and individuals whose loved ones use or have used substances.