Public Health (LCPH) and local agencies to raise awareness on opioid overdoses during Chalk the Walk on Aug.19, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. in Ely Square in Elyria. The community is invited to attend and create inspiring messages to reduce stigma on opioid overdose. The event also aims to encourage people seeking or currently in recovery from a substance use disorder. This event will lead up to National Overdose Awareness Day on August 31.
“For many years now, substance use has been recognized as a public health concern across our county,” says LCPH Commissioner Mark Adams, MPH, REHS. “We need to continue talking about substance use in our social circles to support friends and family who have lost a loved one to an overdose. Chalk the Walk is just one place to start the conversation and offer support.”
At the free event, chalk is available to anyone who wants to participate while supplies last. Other attractions include: music, artist chalk displays, naloxone (Narcan) rescue kits, face painting, awareness giveaways and food for purchase. Hear local recovery stories throughout the event. The Elyria Farmer’s market will be open nearby at the same time to shop. Everyone is encouraged to wear purple for overdose awareness.
In 2022, there were 120 deaths related to an overdose in Lorain County, 113 (94%) of which were opioid-related. LCPH distributed 4,985 naloxone rescue kits to Lorain County residents to prevent opioid overdoses. Reports show that those naloxone rescue kits saved 318 people from dying from an opioid overdose.
Saving someone’s life with naloxone (Narcan) provides a chance for that person to seek recovery. To get a free naloxone rescue kit by mail, submit a request at LorainCountyHealth.com/opioids. Or, visit Lorain County Public Health, 9880 Murray Ridge Road in Elyria, weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. to receive training and pick up a naloxone rescue kit. Call 440-322-6367 to make an appointment after hours.
Visit LorainCountyHealth.com to learn how health and safety are priorities for Lorain County Public Health, or call 440-322-6367. Get local health updates on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube.