White Plains

The Westchester County Department of Community Mental Health (DCMH) recognized August 31 as International Overdose Awareness Day with a solemn ceremony held at the White Plains Public Library. This year’s theme is “25 Years On. Still Needed.” DCMH brought together community organizations and advocates to speak about recovery, reflect on those lost to overdose, and share information on prevention, treatment and recovery support services.

Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins said: “Overdose continues to affect every community. This year’s theme reminds us that, despite the progress we’ve made, there is still more work to do. The Westchester Opioid Response Initiative (ORI) is meeting that challenge by directing opioid settlement funds toward making prevention, treatment and recovery a priority. Our Department of Community Mental Health continues to find innovative ways to raise awareness about the dangers of overdose while highlighting the hope and possibility of recovery. By speaking openly about both the challenges of addiction and the paths to recovery, we can reduce stigma, expand access to support, and save lives.”