The Department of Human Services is Seeking Testimonials to Raise Awareness for International Overdose Awareness Month in August
In preparation for International Overdose Awareness Month which takes place in August and culminates on August 31st with a candlelight vigil, stories of and tributes to loved ones lost, and sharing of community resources on Smuggler’s Beach in Yarmouth, the Barnstable County Department of Human Services is seeking testimonials to help bring awareness to the overdose epidemic in our region. Sharing your own story or that of a loved one affected by addiction resulting in overdose is extremely impactful in reducing the stigma of drug-related deaths, as well as highlighting the importance of programs and services that focus on prevention.
Responses can be anonymous or not – you decide. In addition to placing 86 purple flags on the front lawn of the Superior Courthouse on 6A in Barnstable village in remembrance of the 86 individuals in our region who died of overdose over the past year, we plan to post your testimonials on social media throughout the month of August to not only remember those who lost their struggle with addiction, but also bring humanity and awareness to those who might not understand how devastating and pervasive addiction can be.
Our community’s International Overdose Awareness Day event takes place on Thursday, August 31st at 5:30 PM at Smuggler’s Beach in South Yarmouth (220 South Street). If you have questions or would like to reserve a resource table, please contact Dawn at (508) 737-0086 or tdtkber@gmail.com. The event is sponsored by the Yarmouth Substance Awareness Coalition (YSAC) & the Massachusetts Military Support Foundation (MMSFI).
