Multiple Addictions Programs Cut as Federal ‘Safer Supply’ Funds Expire

A person receives a tested supply of cocaine after gathering to remember those who died from a suspected illicit drug overdose, in Vancouver, on Feb. 9, 2022. The Canadian Press/Darryl Dyck

The federal government says it has no plans to restart federal funding for dozens of “safer supply” and drug addiction services after funding was cut in March.

From 2017 to March 2025, Health Canada provided $126 million in funding via the Substance Use and Addictions Program (SUAP) to 31 different programs that offered government-sanctioned drugs to opioid addicts, which proponents said decreased drug toxicity and opponents said led to more overdoses and a ballooning drug trade in those reselling the narcotics on the street.