The Greene County Anti-Drug Coalition is hosting International Overdose Awareness Day on Friday, August 30th, 2024 at 12 PM.
According to the most recent full-year overdose death statistics, more than 3,826 Tennesseans died from drug overdose or poisoning in 2022. That averages to more than 10 people per day. But provisional data from 2023 and more recent numbers from early 2024 show encouraging trends of significant reductions in overdose deaths.
The 2024 theme for International Overdose Awareness Day is “Together We Can,” and that will be on full display in communities across Tennessee. Substance Use Prevention Coalitions, community-based treatment providers, and other groups have organized more than 65 events across the state.
Come out and support the cause at the Greene County Courthouse on 101 South Main Street, on the front entrance steps. The day will be an opportunity for all to gather for a day of remembrance dedicated to honoring friends, family, those who lost a life, have been affected by overdose, or are in the process of grieving.
According to the coalition, this event aims to raise awareness about overdose prevention, reduce the stigma surrounding drug-related deaths, and acknowledge those that have passed. Community members will be in attendance discussing overdose issues and highlighting the importance of this initiative for Greene County.
Speakers include Judge Kenneth Bailey, GCADC Executive Director Lynn Broyles, Mayor Kevin Morrison and Mayor Cal Doty, State Representative David Hawk, Sheriff Wesley Holt, and Police Chief Steve Spano. Anyone that would like to say a word will have three to five minutes to speak.
If you have additional questions, call the coalition at 423-525-6719 or email [email protected].