The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia, in collaboration with the Georgia Department of Public Health Northwest Health District, is set to host a community event focused on opioid prevention and recovery. The "Spring Into Wellness: An Opioid Prevention and Recovery Community Resource Fair" will take place on May 14, 2024, in Emmerson, Georgia.
According to U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan, the event aims to address the ongoing opioid epidemic and provide support to those in need. Buchanan emphasized the importance of collaboration with law enforcement and community partners to combat substance abuse. He stated, “The opioid epidemic continues to bring immeasurable destruction to communities and devastation to families who have endured the tragic loss of a loved one.”
Dr. Gary Voccio, Health Director for the Northwest Health District, highlighted the preventable nature of opioid overdose deaths. He stressed the significance of improving opioid prescribing practices to reduce exposure and prevent abuse. Voccio stated, “Opioid overdose deaths are preventable... Resources at this community event can help accomplish this.”
The organizers of the event have expressed concerns about opioid-related deaths in Bartow County and the rise in illicit fentanyl exposures among young children nationwide. These concerns have led to a focus on raising awareness and providing resources to the community. The event aims to increase access to prevention and recovery resources, share success stories of individuals overcoming opioid misuse, and educate attendees on fentanyl overdose-prevention strategies.
The community gathering will feature participation from several opioid-overdose prevention resources, offering information and support to the public. U.S. Attorney Buchanan, Dr. Voccio, and local officials from Bartow County are expected to address attendees during the event.
Individuals interested in attending the "Spring Into Wellness" event can register online, although registration is not required. For more information, contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or visit the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia website.