A new harm reduction toolkit created by and for Indigenous youth has launched in B.C., offering practical and culturally relevant resources to support wellness and open dialogue around substance use.
With Open Arms is a free toolkit from the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA), developed with guidance from a nine-member Indigenous youth advisory committee—each with lived or living experience related to substance use.
The toolkit focuses on reducing stigma and empowering youth to talk openly with family, friends, and communities about harm reduction and healing. It includes videos, language guides, and culturally grounded resources built on four main pillars: Holistic Wellness & Prevention, Reducing Harm/Safer Use, Changing Relationships to Substance Use, and Creating Safer, More Supportive Communities.
FNHA Chief Medical Officer Dr. Nel Wieman says the initiative supports open, stigma-free conversations that are crucial during the ongoing toxic drug emergency affecting communities across the province.
The toolkit is part of FNHA’s All Paths Lead to Wellness framework, which recognizes that healing journeys are unique, personal, and often connected to culture and community.
With Open Arms is available for download now at harmreduction.fnha.ca
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