Join Us in Memory of those Lost to Overdose
Many hundreds of thousands of people around the world lose their lives to overdose each year. [Nearly 110,000 Americans lost their lives to overdose in 2022, an increase of roughly four percent from 2021 and the second consecutive year of more than 100,000 overdose deaths]. They were our children, parents, siblings, partners, neighbors, colleagues, and friends.
There is strong evidence to support practical solutions, such as providing free naloxone and fentanyl testing kits and improving access to opioid substitution treatment. All of these have been shown to reduce deaths and other harms caused by overdose.
Local communities, including those in Adams County and around the world, are coming together to remember those who have died or suffered permanent injury due to drug overdose. Observed on the 31st of August every year, International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) seeks to create a better understanding of overdose, reduce the stigma of drug-related deaths, and create change that reduces the harms associated with drug use.
This year the Adams County Overdose Awareness Taskforce will host the 5th annual Overdose Awareness Walk on Thursday, August 31, 2023, at 6 p.m. The walk will begin at the Adams County Court House on Baltimore Street and will end at the Fireman’s Pavilion at the Gettysburg REC Park at 545 Long Lane in Gettysburg. At the Gettysburg REC Park, we will hear from local individuals and community representatives. Free naloxone will also be available.
For more information on this event or the Adams County Overdose Awareness Taskforce, please call Lisa Lindsey at 717-338-0300 x 109. Visit their website at www.overdosefreeadams.org. If you are interested in having a memorial picture of your loved one on display during the event, please contact Lisa at the above information. The AC Overdose Awareness Taskforce is homed at the Center for Youth and Community Development offices located at 233 W High Street in Gettysburg.
