Photos by Mackenzi Klemann | The Lima News
LIMA — Addiction recovery advocates gathered for a rally in Town Square on Thursday afternoon.
Representatives from Allen County Public Health, Brightview Behavioral Health, Coleman Health Services and other addiction support groups talked with passersby about local resources available for people recovering from substance-use disorders.
Passersby lined up and grabbed purple tote bags to fill with free Narcan — the opioid overdose-reversal nasal spray — as well as fentanyl testing strips, drug disposal bags, business cards, pamphlets and food as they walked between booths in the square.
This is the second year the Mental Health Board organized an event in commemoration of International Overdose Awareness Day, which falls on Saturday this year.
The event is one of several planned in Lima for International Drug Overdose Awareness Day.
On Friday, Mercy Health-St. Rita’s Medical Center will hold a moment of silence at 11 a.m. in remembrance of people who suffer from substance-use disorders and drug overdoses.
“This day offers us an opportunity to reflect on the lives lost and extend our support to their loved ones,” Mercy Health-Lima President Ronda Lehman said in a news release about the event.
“As a community, we want to remember those no longer with us and work towards a healthier future,” she said. “Compassion, care and hope are pivotal in creating change and helping individuals and families in Ohio.”
