For Immediate Release: 8/17/2023 4:37 pm
WORCESTER, Mass. – A vigil honoring International Overdose Awareness Day will be held in Worcester on Thursday, Aug. 31 at City Hall.
The Worcester community is invited to join the families who have lost loved ones to overdoses and those who continue to be committed to addressing the tragic impact of overdoses on our community.
This annual event is sponsored by the City of Worcester Department of Health and Human Services along with community partners and organizations. Speakers will include Mass. Department of Public Health (MDPH) Commissioner Robert Goldstein and MDPH Director of the Bureau of Substance Addiction Services Deirdre Calvert, among others.
“It’s important to continue to come together to support those who have been impacted by overdoses and substance use disorder,” said Health and Human Services Commissioner Dr. Matilde Castiel. “As a community, we need to work to erase the stigma associated with addiction and offer help to those who are actively struggling.”
The vigil, which will take place behind City Hall, will include remarks from civic leadership and families, music, and a candle-lighting ceremony in honor of those who have died.
Local organizations will be on hand to share information and support services starting at 4 p.m.
Following the vigil at 5 p.m., participants are invited to process to Winslow and Pleasant Peace Park at 374 Pleasant St. for a brief ceremony at the City Overdose Memorial.
For more information, please email worcoverdoseawareness@gmail.com.
