Oxford Lights of Hope: Opioid Awareness Vigil

OXFORD, CT - From the Oxford Opioid Task Force: The Lights of Hope Vigil is being held as part of National Recovery Month to increase awareness and understanding of mental and substance use disorders and celebrate those in recovery. The evening will feature several opening speakers and is intended to provide hope and support to the families in our community who have lost a loved one, who have a loved one struggling with a mental health or substance use disorder, and support those in recovery.

Susan Schiavi, one of the event organizers said “we want to draw attention to critical prevention, treatment, and recovery support services available to our community.” I learned that this year’s National Recovery Month theme is “Strengthening Families and Communities” and I want Oxford to be a healthy community. No community is immune to the opioid epidemic and we must unite together to help end it.

First Selectman George Temple said the vigil will include live music and an opportunity for families to connect with others so they do not feel alone of ashamed. “The Oxford community has mourned the loss of 10 residents in the past 18 months,’’ said Temple.

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