Gloucester County Accepting Names For Candlelight Overdose Vigil

GLOUCESTER COUNTY, NJ — The Gloucester County Addictions Task Force is still accepting names to honor during the county’s sixth annual Candlelight Vigil in remembrance of overdose victims, to be held on Aug. 31 at James G. Atkinson Park in Sewell.

The vigil is held to raise awareness of opioid overdose and reduce the stigma of a drug-related death. The vigil will begin at dusk, while resource tables will open at 7 p.m.

"We are gathering safely to celebrate those in recovery and honor those who have lost their lives to addiction," Gloucester County Commissioner Director Robert M. Damminger said. "Substance abuse is often misunderstood or overlooked. By bringing awareness to the topic, we hope to bring more people to the resources to get help."

Anyone who has a loved one that they would like to include in the memorial, or who has a loved one who was included in the past and would like to participate, can complete and return the 2021 Vigil Form https://www.gloucestercountynj.gov/DocumentCenter/View/5875, along with a photo, to rmunson@co.gloucester.nj.us.

Residents are invited to bring their own chair, blanket and water. James Atkinson Park is located at 138 Bethel Mill Road, Sewell, NJ, 08080.

"You do not need to be a professional to help. Substance abuse is not always visible, but with understanding and empathy we can help individuals affected," Gloucester County Commissioner Jim Jefferson, liaison to the Division of Human and Disability Services, said.

For more information, visit www.gloucestercountynj.gov or call 856-384-6929.