PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – August 31st is International Overdose Awareness Day. Help “Light Calvert Purple” to remember those who we’ve lost to overdose and support those left behind and others in recovery. International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) seeks to create a better understanding of overdose, reduce the stigma of drug related deaths, and create change that reduces the harm associated with drug use.
The Calvert Alliance Against Substance Abuse, Twin Beach Opioid Abuse Awareness Committee and Calvert County advocacy partners will distribute FREE purple lightbulbs at various locations around the county starting August 21st.
Residents are invited to pick-up a purple lightbulb to shine brightly on August 31st.
The distribution list is available on the Hope4Calvert calendar at www.hope4calvert.org.
In addition, a Glow Vigil and Narcan trainings will be held on August 31st. The Glow Vigil will take place at the North Beach Pavilion from 7 to 9 pm with a memorial reading of names and a “Lost Souls” exhibit. To learn more about the Vigil, Narcan trainings and/or to submit a name to be read visit https://glowvigil-ioad-endthestigma.eventbrite.com. Narcan trainings will be offered at Southern Community Center from 11 am -2 pm and 6-8 pm; Harriet E. Brown Community Center from 11 am-2 pm; and Northeast Community Center from 5:30-8:30 pm
Calvert County is joining a global movement for understanding, compassion, and change.
“Overdose can affect anyone and one of the messages of this day is that the people who overdose are our sons, daughters, mothers, fathers, brothers and sisters – they are loved and they are missed,” states Debbi Mister, President, CAASA Board of Directors.
For more information about International Overdose Awareness Day in Calvert County, contact the CAASA Office at 410-535-3373. For those in need of treatment and recovery services, residents are encouraged to contact Calvert Crisis Response at 877-467-5628.