A peer-led support group for families grappling with loved ones' substance issues is starting up in Chilliwack.
Facilitator Jeannie Savard started the Holding Hope Chilliwack group to remind people locally that "help is always within reach" regardless of what phase of recovery their loved ones had attained.
Holding Hope Chilliwack sessions will offer "a nurturing space" on a twice monthly basis, for folks to "share our journeys, honour our strength, and lift each other up.
"That support can be a beautiful thing," Savard said.
Holding Hope Canada was set up by Moms Stop the Harm, a network of Canadian families impacted by substance-use related harms and deaths. Moms Stop the Harm advocates nationwide to change drug policies and provide peer support to grieving families and those with loved ones who use or have used substances.
Savard has 15 years experience with someone in her family struggling, and believes this level of local support is sorely needed.
"As parents, grandparents, it's a family problem," Savard said. "There is so much stigma around addiction, and fear of being judged, and is very painful. Many of us just hide in our own pain."
She said her "heart needed something" that felt like community support, and the idea to set up the group was born.
PCRS supervisor Serene Mumford said she was approached by Savard when she was actively looking for a space to hold the meetings.
"She was interested in starting a group here in this community and asked me if I knew of a space that would be willing to host," Mumford said.
"I thought PCRS would be great, as we have a boardroom with some availability, and the group ties in with the CAPS program, which offers addiction counselling, and is is already well-established in this community.
"Jeannie and I have known each for quite a long time. I was able to get a go-ahead on the space for it on-site at PCRS for Thursdays."
Savard posted recently to remind parents and family members that they're part of "a community of support, and help is within reach."
She added: "If this resonates with you, please don't hesitate to contact me to learn more."
Email Savard at chilliwack@holdinghopecanada.org
Holding Hope Chiliwack sessions are free to attend every second Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at Pacific Community Resources Society, which is at 45921 Hocking Avenue. Next one is July 17, and then July 31, and every two weeks after.