(Camden, NJ) – In concert with the opening of the Hope and Remembrance Memorial the Freeholder Board will be observing international Overdose Awareness Day today, Aug. 31. Throughout the county workforce colleagues and peers will come together, wear purple and reflect on the thousands lost to the scourge of opioid use disorder that continues to consume our towns, county, state and nation.
“Heroin and opiates are a public health crisis that have had devastating effects on all of us. These narcotics are ubiquitous in every community and no one is immune from their devastating impacts,” said Freeholder Director Louis Cappelli, Jr. “I want to thank the employees of Camden County for joining in the campaign by raising awareness and reducing the stigma of opioid use disorder.”
Tonight, the Camden skyline will be bathed in purple light to mark Overdose Awareness Day. The Camden County Courthouse/City Hall building, the Governor James J. Florio Center for Public Service and the Ben Franklin Bridge will be illuminated in purple light.
“Some of the most recognizable structures that make up the city’s skyline will take part in this observance,” Cappelli said. “These buildings and the bridge will serve as a visual representation of the ongoing public health crisis the nation is experiencing.”
We know that treatment works. If you, or someone you know, are battling addiction, please contact (877) 266-8222 for help. For any assistance related to Camden County’s Office of Mental Health and Addiction and its programs, call (856) 374-6320 or email patty.direnzo@camdencounty.com.