Trey Helton Vancouver Death and Obituary – The passing of Trey Helton, manager of Vancouver’s Overdose Prevention Society (OPS), at the age of 42, marks a profound loss for the Downtown Eastside (DTES) community and for the broader public health and harm reduction movements. Trey was more than a frontline worker — he was a compassionate leader, a fierce advocate, and a selfless caregiver whose life was dedicated to serving others, both human and animal alike.
Trey’s work at OPS, a peer-led harm reduction facility in one of Canada’s most vulnerable neighborhoods, was defined by empathy and deep personal connection. With his loyal dog Zelda by his side — trained to detect drug overdoses — Trey transformed OPS into a refuge. Under his leadership, OPS became a space of safety and dignity for those grappling with addiction, homelessness, and poverty, where people felt seen, heard, and valued. His presence there was both a stabilizing force and a source of hope for countless individuals.
Beyond his formal role, Trey embodied an ethos of unwavering support. He went far beyond the boundaries of any job description — personally transporting clients to detox centers, visiting them in hospitals, and even offering shelter in his own home. His actions reflected a profound belief: that everyone, regardless of their struggles, deserves compassion and care. Trey understood that recovery and resilience were built not just through services, but through relationships grounded in love and respect.
An animal lover at heart, Trey also championed the needs of pets in the DTES, recognizing the vital emotional support they provided their owners. He launched the “Dogs of the Downtown Eastside” calendar fundraiser, a project that raised money for veterinary care while honoring the unique bond between residents and their companion animals. The initiative was more than a fundraiser — it was a celebration of community, resilience, and mutual care.
Trey’s collaborative spirit extended to his work with Community Veterinary Outreach (CVO), especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. He played a key role in launching a One Health Clinic — a pioneering model that provided both human and animal healthcare services in one accessible location. This approach, rooted in empathy and innovation, embodied Trey’s belief in holistic and inclusive care.
The death of Trey Helton leaves a tremendous void. His legacy, however, is alive in the lives he touched and the systems he helped shape. He stood as a symbol of what public service should be — grounded in justice, humility, and humanity. Trey’s commitment to a better world inspired everyone around him, and his work will continue through the many he mentored and empowered.
As the DTES community mourns, it also honors a man who never stopped believing in the power of compassion. Trey Helton will be remembered not only for what he did, but for who he was — a person who met suffering with love, and who reminded us all of the profound impact one heart can have.