Title
To Designate August 31, 2024 as International Overdose Awareness Day in the City of Columbus and to Recognize the Work of Safe Point
Body
WHEREAS, International Overdose Awareness Day is an annual worldwide campaign observed on August 31 aiming to raise awareness while pausing to remember those we have tragically lost; and,
WHEREAS, the overdose epidemic continues to affect individuals, families, and communities across the country, including residents of Central Ohio and Franklin County, where the number of overdose-related deaths and injuries remain a critical public health concern; and,
WHEREAS, we acknowledge the grief of those whose lives have been irrevocably changed by this ongoing crisis and extend our deepest condolences to all our neighbors impacted by overdose and substance use disorders; and,
WHEREAS, recognizing International Overdose Awareness Day provides an opportunity for the City of Columbus to promote impactful education, prevention, and treatment efforts; and,
WHEREAS, the City of Columbus is committed to working with community organizations, healthcare providers, law enforcement, and other partners to address the overdose crisis and support holistic approaches and policy initiatives for prevention, harm reduction, and recovery; and,
WHEREAS, Equitas Health’s Safe Point program provides comprehensive harm reduction services to lessen negative health outcomes by educating the community on safer drug use practices and combating the spread of infectious disease; and,
WHEREAS, Safe Point offers syringe exchange and supplies, HIV and Hepatitis C testing, the lifesaving drug Narcan, overdose prevention education, drug intervention treatment referrals, and risk reduction counseling, among other essential support services; and,
WHEREAS; Fostering dialogue about overdose can lead to greater understanding, compassion, and action within our community, helping reduce the stigma faced by individuals struggling with substance use disorders...
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