BRIDGEWATER, NJ — Operation Helping Hand will host its "Running for Recovery" 5K Run and Walk on Saturday, Sept. 12, at Duke Island Park.
The Somerset County Prosecutor's Office is inviting residents to take part in a community event focused on substance use disorder awareness and recovery support.
The event is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and is intended to bring people together, celebrate recovery and connect individuals and families with local treatment and recovery resources.
Registration is $15 per participant. All registered participants will receive a finisher medal, a commemorative event T-shirt and post-race ice cream.
Awards will go to the top overall male and female finishers and the top three male and female finishers in each age division. Children ages 7 and under can join a free Kids Dash.
In addition to the 5K run and walk, the event will include family-friendly activities and public safety demonstrations.
The Somerset County Sheriff's Office K-9 Unit is scheduled to hold a demonstration at 10:30 a.m., and the Somerset County SWAT vehicle will be on display throughout the event.
Attendees will also be able to visit resource tables featuring treatment providers, recovery support organizations, prevention agencies and community partners, according to the announcement.
"Recovery is a journey that no one should have to face alone," said Somerset County Prosecutor John P. McDonald. "This event is an opportunity for our community to come together, show support for individuals and families affected by addiction, and highlight the many resources available throughout Somerset County. Every step taken is a step toward hope, healing, and recovery."
Operation Helping Hand is a countywide collaborative initiative involving local law enforcement agencies, peer recovery specialists, treatment providers and community organizations.
The program connects individuals and families impacted by substance use disorders with treatment and recovery services and works to reduce stigma associated with addiction.
The initiative is committed to saving lives, reducing overdose deaths, supporting long-term recovery and strengthening healthier communities throughout Somerset County.
The county said Operation Helping Hand partners with CiC for Prevention and Recovery, which provides prevention, recovery support, education and connections to resources from offices in Bernardsville and Franklin Township.
The event is supported through Operation Helping Hand grant funding from the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General, Office of Alternative and Community Responses.
For more information or to register, residents can visit runsignup.com/Race/NJ/Bridgewater/SCOHH or contact the Somerset County Prosecutor's Office Operation Helping Hand Program at OHH@somersetcountynj.gov.
People seeking addiction services can call 908-393-8888, visit bit.ly/somersetohh or email OHH@SomersetCountyNJ.gov.
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