Jim Cessford’s Independents Working For You slate is outlining their plan tackle the opioid crises in Delta.
Saying he understands the crises, the former police chief in a news release says most of the community has been impacted by a death related to drug use.
“It is more difficult than merely offering treatment or policing drug enforcement. Many people fall through the cracks in our health system,” Cessford explains.
“Some of the cases I have been involved with are individuals with concurrent disorders; drug addiction and mental illness. When they are in crisis these folks ping-pong between services that are not set up for both.”
“If the City can’t fill the service gaps, we sure can be part of the solution,” adds Cessford. “We need to be a positive partner who builds bridges between our community, governments, Fraser Health, mental health and addition specialist groups, police, fire and emergency services, and fosters the growth of non-profits who offer a holistic approach to addiction.”
“The City can play a vital role as a resource, sharing our facilities, and acting as a network connector between agencies and communities,” states Cessford. “The city must play an active role to protect these valuable lives and to care for the families impacted.”
Cessford promised to work with the school board, schools, parks and recreation and service groups to educate both youth and parents about prevention and support services, as well as partner with Fraser Health to access experts and develop resources to share that expertise throughout Delta. He also said he will foster a relationship with a non-profit to construct a safe overnight facility that supports transitioning people into treatment.
