These events aim to raise awareness of overdose, and reduce the stigma of a drug-related death.
The Gloucester County Board of Chosen Freeholders and the Gloucester County Addictions Task Force are sponsoring two events on Thursday, Aug. 31, in recognition of International Overdose Awareness Day. These events aim to raise awareness of overdose, and reduce the stigma of a drug-related death. The day also acknowledges the grief felt by families and friends and remembers those who have met with death or permanent injury as a result of drug overdose.
Both events will be held rain or shine at James Atkinson Park, 138 Bethel Mill Rd, Sewell.
“Addiction touches almost every family in some way, shape or form and by lifting the stigma of shame from it, hopefully we can touch people and help them,” Freeholder Director Robert M. Damminger said.
“We don’t want anyone one else to die from substance abuse disorders,” said Freeholder Jim Jefferson, liaison to the Department of Health and Human Services. “People with this disorder come from all walks of life.”
Jefferson said the Recovery Works walk was added this year to help celebrate recovery and end the stigma surrounding drug and alcohol addiction.
“We can celebrate those who are in recovery and we can commemorate those who have lost their lives,” Jefferson said. “We can come together as a community so those struggling and those who have lost family and friends realize they are never alone.”
Jefferson said the Gloucester County Addiction Task Force is comprised of community members that have been adversely impacted by addictions, or are working professionals in the field.
Recovery Works
Celebrate recovery and help end the stigma surrounding drug and alcohol addiction with a short walk around Atkinson Park prior to the vigil. You do not have to be in recovery yourself to participate. Walkers will include those in recovery, along with family, friends, providers and many others. The walk is free, but registration is required. To register, please visit www.recovery-walk.eventbrite.com. Sign-in begins at 5:30 p.m., with the walk taking place from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Second annual Candlelight Vigil
Thousands of people die each year from substance abuse. These individuals come from all walks of life and Gloucester County is not untouched by this tragedy. We will remember those who have lost their lives, as we bring some sense of community to their families and friends. Vigil takes place at dusk.
If you have a family member or friend that you would like to commemorate in this ceremony, please send their name and photograph, along with your contact information, to Robert Bamford at rbamford@co.gloucester.nj.us, or call (856) 384–6929.
