Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day Gets Terrific Statewide Support

Congressman Lance joined volunteers Saturday October 6th outside the Lyons Mall in Bernards Township to voice support of their efforts to turn the tide on the leading cause of death nationwide, described by the White House as a public health emergency. Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day, on October 6 each year, provides information to NJ residents to help them make better decisions for loved ones, and to better understand the link between opioid prescription drug abuse and rising heroin abuse. Community in Crisis volunteers spent the day talking to residents of the Somerset Hills about safe disposal of unused and unwanted opioids, as well as the importance of asking prescribers questions about opioid prescriptions.

On Thursday last week, the New Jersey State Legislature reaffirmed its commitment to fighting the opioid epidemic and its support for the efforts of the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey and NJ coalitions by unanimously passing a joint resolution proclaiming October 6 as Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day in the state. Clodette Sabatelle, a member of the Community in Crisis Board of Directors, said, "We're very pleased that October 6 is now permanently designated as a key day for spreading education and awareness of the risks of prescription opioids and their link to heroin use."

For more information, visit www.communityincrisis.org.