Wicomico County Health Department Hosts Overdose Awareness Event

WICOMICO COUNTY, Md. — The Wicomico County Health Department is hosting an overdose awareness event Monday to close out Overdose Awareness Month.

The community gathered on the final day of the month to raise awareness about the dangers of street drugs and substance misuse. The event also provides an opportunity for people to come together and grieve the loss of loved ones who have died from addiction.

Jessica Taylor with the Wicomico County Health Department said the event is meant to break the silence and stigma surrounding addiction.

“We want to let everybody know that if we continue silence, stigma stays alive,” Taylor said. “So, we want to shatter that by raising our voices and letting people know that they are not alone in the community. We’re here to love and support them, give them the honor of their loved ones that they’ve lost, and to let them know that there are support out there for them.”

The event is free and family-friendly. Attendees can access resources focused on bereavement, crisis and grief support. The event also includes pizza, Kona Ice, speakers sharing their stories about overdose awareness, an inspirational dancer and a memorial wall honoring loved ones who have died.

Pets on Wheels will also be at the event with therapy dogs to provide comfort and emotional support.

“We also have Pets on Wheels. And they will bring their dogs and, just a time of comfort and emotional support because the night will be heavy,” Taylor said. “But again, it’s needed so that we can mourn and grieve and go through that emotional feeling and know that we’re not alone. But it’s a beautiful night as well and we’ll end with a candle vigil.”

The event also marks the beginning of Wicomico Goes Purple; an initiative aimed at raising awareness about substance misuse. Community members can participate by wearing purple throughout September.

The event is scheduled to end at 7:30 p.m. at Winterplace Park.