Dowtown Belleville BIA issues statement about an increase in overdoses this week

Local community groups and leaders continue to issue statements, following the increase in overdoses this week in Belleville.

Starting on Tuesday afternoon, Belleville Police responded to 17 overdoses in a 24-hour period. No deaths were reported during that period. The emergencies were concentrated in the downtown core.

Here is the statement from Downtown Belleville BIA.

“In light of recent events, the Downtown Belleville BIA continues to address the perception of safety and promote a sense of inclusivity within the Downtown community via their Welcoming Streets program. Through their therapeutic approach, Welcoming Streets has been supporting community members since 2021, connecting people to vital services and assisting businesses with uncertain situations by offering resources, materials, and workshops pertaining to mental health and substance use, homelessness, systems navigation, and life-saving medication training.

Beyond proactively engaging with the downtown community via outreach, Welcoming Streets acknowledges the pivotal role businesses play in nurturing a secure and inclusive atmosphere. Through this community-centered approach, Welcoming Streets remains committed to addressing the distinct needs of both the business community and the vulnerable  population.

“For a thriving downtown core, it’s imperative that all members of our community feel not just safe, but truly welcomed,” says Sara Behring, Community Outreach Director with the Welcoming Streets program. “We are continually listening to and learning from the diverse voices within our community, adapting our approach to meet the unique needs that arise. By remaining responsive and flexible, we can ensure that Welcoming Streets remains a dynamic force for positive change, fostering a downtown environment where everyone feels respected, supported, and included.

Belleville’s downtown district is not only a hub of thriving businesses but also a testament to the city’s commitment to safety and community well-being. As the local economy flourishes with a diverse array of establishments, ranging from quaint shops to bustling cafes, the city has concurrently invested in creating a secure and welcoming environment for residents and visitors. Collaborative efforts between local businesses, law enforcement, and community leaders have led to the implementation of effective safety measures, ensuring that downtown Belleville remains a secure destination for all. The city’s commitment to fostering a safe atmosphere underscores its dedication to creating a vibrant urban experience where commerce and community thrive hand-in-hand. Visitors to Belleville’s downtown can enjoy the best of both worlds – a bustling commercial landscape and a secure, inviting space that reflects the city’s dedication to the well-being of its residents.

“Discover the heartbeat of our city in Downtown Belleville, from quaint cafes to trendy boutiques, our Downtown is a vibrant community waiting to be explored.  says Danielle Hanoman, Executive Director of the Belleville Downtown District BIA, “Mark your calendars for February 24th, when the excitement reaches its peak with the much-anticipated ‘Savour the Chill’ soup contest, adding an extra layer of culinary delight to your Downtown exploration.”

To learn more about the Downtown Belleville District BIA and Welcoming Streets, please visit https://downtownbelleville.ca/welcomingstreets/

For all inquiries relating to Welcoming streets, please email welcome@downtownbelleville.ca or hello@downtownbellevile.ca for general inquiries.

By actively addressing safety concerns, the Belleville Downtown District BIA and Welcoming Streets are determined to build a resilient and thriving community that stands together in the face of challenges.”