Hamilton Township Mayor Jeff Martin is pleased to share that the Mercer Council on Alcoholism & Drug Addiction, the Prevention Coalition of Mercer County, the Mercer County Prosecutor's Office, the Hamilton Alliance Against Substance Abuse, and Footprints to Recovery will join together in global observance of International Overdose Awareness Day on August 31st.
Mercer County's Overdose Awareness Day event will provide an opportunity for community members to connect with others who have been impacted by overdose and addiction. While many experience the grief of physical loss, many more also experience the pain of emotionally losing loved ones to addiction; this event will bring awareness to the challenges of substance misuse and abuse. This year's event will be held at Hamilton Veterans Park (Klockner Rd Entrance) from 5:30 pm to 8 pm on Thursday, August 31st.
Attendees will have the opportunity to attend a Narcan demonstration, showcasing the administration of this life-saving medication used to reverse opioid overdoses. Additionally, space will be provided for families to connect with others impacted by overdose and addiction. Grief resources and treatment options will be present to provide additional support. The event will also feature a memorial and vigil. We invite attendees to bring personal mementos, photographs, or written messages to help us support them and to honor and remember their loved ones. To have an item displayed at the memorial, please email pcmc@mercercouncil.org.
"International Overdose Awareness Day serves as a crucial reminder that our work to raise awareness for drug overdose extends far beyond a single day," claims Mayor Martin. "It is a testament to the ongoing commitment of Hamilton Township and Mercer Council, showcasing our long-standing alliance in addressing this critical issue. Together, we will continue to fight stigma, promote education, support those affected by drug overdose, and always remember loved ones as we strive for a healthier community."
The Mercer Council is committed to its mission of creating pathways to reduce substance-related challenges through education, support, advocacy, and partnerships in the community. By fostering collaboration and implementing preventative initiatives, Mercer Council endeavors to address social challenges, support mental and behavioral health, and provide essential educational resources to combat substance abuse and misuse.
For several years, Hamilton Township has played a key role in Mercer County's efforts to raise awareness about the dangers of drug overdose. As a sponsor of events like this, Hamilton is committed to doing everything possible to combat this national crisis. Through education, advocacy, and community outreach, Hamilton is working to ensure that residents can access the resources they need to stay safe and get the help they need. From providing information about treatment options to offering support groups and other resources, Hamilton is dedicated to making a real difference in the lives of those affected by addiction.
Mercer County residents and all surrounding communities are encouraged to join in this event and be a part of the effort to address the substance abuse crisis. Together we can reduce stigma, promote prevention, and support those affected by addiction in their journey toward recovery. For more information about Mercer County's Overdose Awareness Day, visit the event page at overdoseday.com/hamilton. Register online at https://forms.gle/2rRrv7FgvTuRn4aV8. For additional questions about the event, contact Malissa Arnold at marnold@mercercouncil.org.