As part of Chester County's ongoing commitment to tackle the opioid epidemic, the county's Department of Drug and Alcohol Services will recognize International Overdose Awareness Day on Saturday, Aug. 31. On this day, the county will join communities around the world in encouraging residents, businesses, and organizations to raise awareness of overdose, reduce the stigma surrounding overdoses and drug-related deaths, remember the lives lost to overdoses, and acknowledge the grief felt by families and friends who have lost a loved one.

This year's International Overdose Awareness Day theme, "Together We Can," highlights the power of community when people stand together.

As part of the recognition, 84 purple pinwheels, representing 84 lives lost to accidental overdoses in Chester County in 2023, will be displayed in front of the Chester County Justice Center on Market Street in West Chester. From Wednesday, Aug. 28, through Tuesday, Sept. 3, 84 pinwheels will also be displayed at the Government Services Center on Westtown Road.

On Aug. 28, the public is invited to attend a Night of Light event from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on the steps of the Historic Courthouse in West Chester. The event will feature local resource tables, several keynote speakers, and a luminaria ceremony to honor loved ones lost and those working toward long-term recovery.

For more information on the Night of Light event, visit http://www.chesco.org/DrugandAlcohol. More information and resources on all drug and alcohol services and programs is available by visiting the aforementioned website or calling the Chester County Information and Referral line at 866-286-3767.