Overdose does not discriminate. It could be a loved one, a friend, a colleague, or a neighbor. Each day, lives are being changed or lost to overdose. In recognition of International Overdose Awareness Day, community members are invited to get involved to prevent the tragedy of overdose.

Catholic Charities of Orange, Sullivan, and Ulster will recognize International Overdose Awareness Day at its locations in Orange and Sullivan counties. Community members are invited to learn more about substance use disorder (SUD) and overdose prevention by attending an open house at Catholic Charities’ clinic locations in Goshen, Middletown, Monticello, Newburgh, and Port Jervis on Friday, August 30, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

During the open house, people struggling with addiction, as well as people who care about someone with SUD, can speak with a certified recovery peer advocate and be connected with experienced SUD clinicians. Free naloxone (Narcan) training and kits and other harm reduction supplies will be available. Staff will provide information about connections to treatment and other resources. There will also be opportunities to memorialize loved ones lost to overdose.

International Overdose Awareness Day is the world’s largest annual campaign to end overdose. This year’s theme “Together we can” highlights the power a community can have when they work together to raise awareness of substance use disorder, combat stigmatization, promote treatment, celebrate recovery, and strengthen collective efforts to prevent overdose deaths.

“The substance use crisis has had a devastating impact on our communities, families, and individuals. It’s essential that we equip people with the resources and support necessary to prevent the fatal consequences of substance misuse and provide access to evidence-based prevention, intervention, treatment, and recovery services,” said Amy Kolakowski, LCSW, chief clinical officer, Catholic Charities of Orange, Sullivan, and Ulster. “By welcoming community members into our offices to learn more about the resources available to them close to home, we can give those affected by addiction the best chance of finding long-term recovery and hope for the future,” added Kolakowski.

Catholic Charities provides a supportive OASAS-approved outpatient program for people struggling with alcohol, drugs, and other substances. Multiple levels of treatment are available for adults and adolescents. Services include outpatient treatment and recovery support for individuals and families, medication-assisted treatment, peer advocacy, harm reduction, and referrals to food and shelter assistance. Catholic Charities provides help and creates hope for people in need regardless of religion, ability to pay, or insurance status.

To learn more, attend one of the open house events on Friday, August 30, or call the HELPline at 845-794-8080 xHELP (4357).