June 2, 2026
Manitoba Government Invests $1 Million to Combat Overdose Crisis
– – –Investment in Overdose Response Team, Shelter Staff Training and Oxygen Therapy Will Support Communities: Smith
The Manitoba government is investing $1 million to address the ongoing toxic drug crisis and support community organizations in Winnipeg by enhancing first aid equipment, providing training for front-line staff and establishing a dedicated 24-7 mobile paramedic team in the downtown Winnipeg area, Housing, Addictions and Homelessness Minister Bernadette Smith announced today.
“Every day, front-line workers, outreach teams, shelter staff and community organizations are stepping up to support people experiencing the impacts of the toxic drug crisis,” said Smith. “These investments recognize the critical role they play in our communities and will help ensure they have the tools, training and support needed to respond when lives are at risk.”
Community partners have identified a significant increase in overdose events in Winnipeg’s north end, west end and downtown, particularly in shelters and encampments, which places increased pressure on staff and emergency services, the minister noted.
To support front-line organizations and improve responses to overdose incidents, the Manitoba government is providing the following funding:
- Winnipeg Fire and Paramedic Service (WFPS) – $802,000 to support a pilot mobile overdose response team serving Winnipeg’s downtown;
- Main Street Project – $150,000 to manage the supply and distribution of approximately 20 oxygen delivery devices; and
- St. John Ambulance and Manitoba Harm Reduction Network – $100,000 in shared funding to support intermediate first aid training and overdose response training for front-line community partners including naloxone administration and guidance on when to call emergency medical services.
The three-month pilot with the WFPS, beginning this month, will deploy a dedicated two-person paramedic team available 24-7 to respond to overdose calls in high-need areas. This includes the shelter sector, with flexibility to respond to surrounding communities as needed, the minister noted.
Oxygen delivery devices will also be provided to front-line organizations to deliver supplemental oxygen, which can improve outcomes in overdoses where substances may not respond to naloxone alone.
The Manitoba government is continuing to work with community partners and emergency responders to develop long-term solutions to the growing challenges posed by toxic drugs, the minister added.
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