Vancouver drug advocates open pop-up overdose prevention sites

Drug use advocates in downtown Vancouver have set up temporary overdose prevention tables after the B.C. government cancelled a planned site at 900 Helmcken Street. The informal popups appeared near the vacant building and offered harm reduction supplies and water to people in need. Local business owners and nearby residents expressed mixed views. Some said they support harm reduction but are worried about street disorder, aggression, and violence around the area. Others argued that having a safe, supervised place could reduce overdoses and keep people from using drugs in alleys and on sidewalks. Vancouver Coastal Health said it had no advance notice of the popup sites and learned that individuals were distributing supplies on their own. The health authority said it will work with the province and city stakeholders on possible future uses for the building, including treatment, recovery, and longterm wellness programs.