International Overdose Awareness Day Vigil

Time to remember. Time to Act. 

[MONTICELLO] The 3rd Annual International Overdose Awareness Day Vigil was held on August 31st at 7 PM on the lawn of the Sullivan County Courthouse 414 Broadway, Monticello.

International Overdose Awareness Day is the world’s largest annual campaign to end overdose, remembering without stigma those who have died from overdose, and acknowledging the grief of the family and friends left behind.

According to the New York State Department of Health, Sullivan County holds the highest rate of overdose, per capita in New York State; and was also recently federally-designated as a High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA).

State and local leaders shared their efforts to battle the opioid crisis in Sullivan County. The community opened their hearts as families share their stories of loved ones who lost their battle with substance use. Remember those who have passed and celebrate those in recovery. 20 organizations were in attendance sharing resources created to face this crisis head on. As the sun set, and in front of the Sullivan County Courthouse bathed in purple symbolizing overdose awareness, a candlelight vigil was held.

The event was complemented by local first responders, the Sullivan County Choir, an interpretive dance performance and bagpipers.

This event was brought to you by a community of organizations working together to end the opioid epidemic in Sullivan County.