Overdose Deaths To Be Remembered On March 6
United in Recovery, alongside our partners, Jeremy’s Journey and Oasis Community Recovery Club warmly invite you to join us for a meaningful Black Balloon Day Events on Thursday, March 6th. These events are not only an opportunity to honor those we've lost to substance overdose but also a chance to come together as a supportive community.
From 1PM to 5PM, community members can stop by Oasis Community Recovery Club, 210 E Independence Street in Shamokin, to receive personalized flower seed bags to plant in honor of their loved ones. There will also be valuable resources, including free Narcan kits and testing strips for fentanyl and xylazine.
“With drug overdose being the leading cause of accidental death in the United States, and opioid addiction driving much of this crisis, it's crucial that we come together to offer compassion and assistance to those in need,” said Pam Comfort – McGinness, Recovery Engagement Project Coordinator / CRS / CCHW with United in Recovery.
A second community event to honor the lives lost to overdose will take place at Sponsler Park on the 600 block of Monroe Street in Berwick. Instead of releasing balloons, attendees will be invited to write the names of those they’ve lost on luminaria bags, which will be lit at 6:30 p.m. as a symbol of remembrance and solidarity. The event will also feature inspiring speakers sharing personal experiences, and volunteers will distribute free Narcan kits and other harm reduction supplies.
“Each day, 15 Pennsylvanians die from an overdose, and we want to ensure that they are not just a number. This event is about honoring their memory and offering support to those left behind.”
These events are free and open to the public. All community members are encouraged to attend and take part in this meaningful evening of remembrance and awareness.
“Your presence will make a difference as we stand in solidarity, honoring those we've lost and advocating for a future free from the grips of substance overdose.”
For more information, please contact United in Recovery at uir@svuw.org.
Media Contact:
Kendra Koser, Nonprofit Marketing Strategist
t: (570) 415-0023 | e: npmarket@svuw.org
