International Overdose Awareness Day 2024

Cambridge Police Department’s Clinical Support Unit Helps Host International Overdose Awareness Day on August 29^th

International Overdose Awareness Day is the world’s largest annual campaign to end overdose. This year’s theme is “Together We Can.”

Every day, we see lives around us being changed and lost to opioid overdose. Overdose does not discriminate – it could be you or someone you love, a friend, colleague, or your neighbor. In honor of International Overdose Awareness Day, Cambridge Public Health Department, Access Drug User Health Program, Cambridge Police Department, and Cambridge CARE will gather to recognize and remember the lives lost to opioid overdoses. Join us on August 29th at Cambridge City Hall from 1:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. to remember the loved ones we have lost. The partners will also be providing materials for harm reduction and health promotion. It’s time to remember. It’s time to act.

Cambridge also recognizes September as Recovery Month. Recovery Month emphasizes that Recovery is for everyone: every person, every family, every community. In addition to the 25 purple flags planted on the City Hall lawn representing lives lost to overdose in 2023, the Cambridge Public Health Department will be hosting several events throughout the month, including a family resources panel and an overdose prevention training. Keep an eye on social media (Instagram, Facebook, Twitter) for events and resources from the Cambridge Public Health Department and across the City. Recovery is possible, and our community stands with everyone living with a substance use disorder.

If you or a loved one need help or support with recovery, free and confidential help is available 24/7 through the Massachusetts Substance Use Helpline, 800-327-5050. The Cambridge Public Health Department also offers free naloxone and overdose prevention education.

Read flyer.