Westchester County Recognizes International Overdose Awareness Day

Communities Come Together to Share Stories of Loss, Recovery and Hope

The Westchester County Department of Community Mental Health (DCMH) recognized August 31 as International Overdose Awareness Day with a solemn ceremony held at the White Plains Public Library. This year’s theme is “25 Years On. Still Needed.” DCMH brought together community organizations and advocates to speak about recovery, reflect on those lost to overdose, and share information on prevention, treatment and recovery support services.

Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins said: “Overdose continues to affect every community. This year’s theme reminds us that, despite the progress we’ve made, there is still more work to do. The Westchester Opioid Response Initiative (ORI) is meeting that challenge by directing opioid settlement funds toward making prevention, treatment and recovery a priority. Our Department of Community Mental Health continues to find innovative ways to raise awareness about the dangers of overdose while highlighting the hope and possibility of recovery. By speaking openly about both the challenges of addiction and the paths to recovery, we can reduce stigma, expand access to support, and save lives.”

International Overdose Awareness Day honors the lives of loved ones who have died from overdose.  It is a day to come together to share stories and prevention strategies, as well as to inform people about various paths to recovery. The event held at the White Plains Library included community partner organizations that work in the field of recovery and overdose, as well as live entertainment and music. Featured speakers at the event shared stories of their challenges and battles with addiction.

Westchester County Commissioner of DCMH Michael Orth said: “We come together on August 31, but we know that every day we see and hear the stories of those who struggle with addiction and have experienced overdose. Overdose affects not just those who are taking drugs but family, friends and communities.  I want to thank our County Executive Ken Jenkins for his commitment to promoting programs that provide hope and action in keeping Westchester residents safe and supported. Special thanks also go to our friends in White Plains for their support of this important event. Events like these are a continuing effort to promote evidence-based practices and strategies to prevent and reduce drug-related harms.”