Island Health looks to highlight youth who have a passion for innovative approaches to the toxic drug crisis.

鈥淭he unregulated drug emergency affects us all 鈥� including young people. Their voice is vital to inform the response,鈥� chief medical health officer Dr. Reka Gustafson said in a news release. 鈥淚sland Health is honoured once again to recognize the inspiring and important work of our youth.鈥�

Applications for the 2025 Youth Harm Reduction Award are now open.

Harm reduction aims to reduce negative health, social and legal impacts associated with a range of activities. Widely accepted harm reduction practices include the use of seatbelts and bike helmets, condoms, speed limits and sunscreen. In terms of the toxic drug crisis, harm reduction often refers to safer ways to consume substances, safer substance use supplies and the use of naloxone to reduce the effects of drug poisonings from opioids.

Launched in 2022, the annual award recognizes youth who have worked on a harm reduction project related to substance use. Winners receive cash, totalling $1,000, and a framed certificate.

The awards are open to those younger than 19 who live on Vancouver Island, the islands in the Salish Sea and the Johnstone Strait, and mainland communities north of Powell River.

Applications will be reviewed in April, with the winning submission announced in June.

Apply online at .

The deadline for applications is March 31, 2025.