“Stop The Stigma:" Overdose Awareness Day Set In Chesco

WEST CHESTER, PA — As part of Chester County’s commitment to tackle the opioid epidemic, the county’s Department of Drug & Alcohol Services plans to participate in International Overdose Awareness Day on Wednesday, Aug. 31.

The county will join communities around the world in encouraging residents, businesses, and organizations to raise awareness of overdose, reduce the stigma surrounding overdoses and drug-related deaths, remember the lives lost to overdose, and acknowledge the grief felt by families and friends who have lost a loved one.

To mark the occasion, 109 pinwheels representing the 109 lives lost in Chester County to accidental overdose in 2021 will be displayed in front of the Chester County Justice Center on Market Street and outside the Government Services Center on Westtown Road.

The public is invited to attend “Night of Light” 6:30 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 31 at the Chester County Historic Courthouse in West Chester.

“This year, we join communities across the country, and the world, to remember the lives lost to, and those still battling substance use disorders,” said Vince Brown, executive director of the Chester County Department of Drug and Alcohol Services.

“Substance use disorders are still extremely prevalent,” he added. “We encourage all residents, businesses, and community groups to join us in raising awareness of substance use disorders and wiping out the stigma attached to it.

The evening will feature local resource tables, keynote speakers, free naloxone kits and a luminary ceremony. More information is available at stopodchesco.org/events.