Conference in Timmins aims to find solutions to opioid crises in smaller Canadian cities, towns

Timmins, Ont., is hosting Canada's first summit on the opioid crisis in small and medium communities today.

Attendees from across Canadaare discussing strategy and sharingideas. The event aims to reflect the specific realities of drug use incommunities with fewer than 150,000 residents.

The event was organized by the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addictions.

Its CEO, Alexander Caudarella, saidTimmins was chosen for its experience dealing with the opioid crisis.

"Timmins was a great example because in addition to the tragedy and the suffering, there's been some really interesting innovation that's gotten some national and international coverage," said Caudarella.

Panelistsat the summithailfrom Nunavut, Alberta, Prince Edward Island and Ontario, and represent the health sectors, social services, mining and construction industries.They say despite their geographical differences, they all have one thing in common: they want to find solutions to the toxic drug crisis in smaller communities.

"There are a number of jurisdictions who have addressed similar crises before. This needs to be the messageyes, there's pain, yes there's suffering, but there needs to be hope and there needs to be solutions," said Caudarella.

Timmins Mayor Michelle Boileau sees this as a way for a city like hers to have a bigger voice when it comes to discussing treatment and supports.

"The conversations being had right now by decision-makers aren't being had in or with small- and medium-sized communities, but rather in larger urban centres," said Boileau.

The mayor saidshe hopes the summit will help leaders in smaller communities realize they are not alone in addressing the opioid problems.