Event Details
On Thursday, August 27, 2026 at 6:30pm, a vigil will be held to observe International Overdose Awareness Day at Memorial Park Gazebo, 92 Rosemary Street. International Overdose Awareness Day is an opportunity to remember without stigma those who have died, and acknowledge the grief of the family and friends left behind. Needham’s observance will include speakers, free naloxone and naloxone training, a memorial flag display, music and the distribution of informational materials to support community members facing substance use challenges. The event is free and open to the public. This marks Needham’s 5th annual vigil. All are welcome.
Speakers at the vigil will share personal stories of recovery, and loss, meant to inspire action, reduce stigma, and open hearts and minds to facts about substance use disorders (SUD) – the first and foremost being that SUD is not a moral failing. Actually, substance use disorder is a chronic brain disease that is often created or exacerbated by mental illness, genetic factors, and/or childhood trauma.
At the vigil, we will remember the 978 people from Massachusetts and the 69,673 Americans whose lives were lost to overdose in 2025. Many of these fatalities were fentanyl poisonings from fake pills that were purchased from illegal online sources by individuals who believed they were purchasing legal prescription pills.
Those who are unable to attend the vigil will still be able to view the purple flag display - commemorating the 978 lives lost in Massachusetts – at the lower end of Memorial Park, along Highland Avenue. In addition, red flags will be available so that community members can acknowledge loved ones they have lost to overdose in previous years.
This observance of International Overdose Awareness Day has been made possible through the collaboration of the Becca Schmill Foundation, Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital Needham, Needham Interfaith Clergy Association, Needham Police Department, Needham Public Health Division and Substance Prevention Alliance of Needham (SPAN), and Needham Youth & Family Services.