It has been nine years since the Province of B.C. declared a public health emergency for drug toxicity and overdose, and Penticton is set to mark the solemn occasion by holding a community event.

The public is invited to join local organizations and advocates as they come together at Okanagan Beach on April 14 to honour the lives lost due to toxic drugs and overdose, and renew their call to action against the ongoing crisis. 

The gathering will begin near the benches at 10:30 a.m. with speakers from the City of Penticton, snpink鈥檛n Indian Band and Moms Stop the Harm sharing their stories. People will also have the opportunity to draw or write the names of their loved ones on rocks.

At 11:30 a.m., there will be a walk down to the fire pits to roast hot dogs and share food together. There will be an opportunity to write and burn messages to loved ones at the fire as well.