Chalk the Walk family event for overdose awareness returns August 16

Join Lorain County Public Health (LCPH) and local agencies to raise awareness on overdoses during Chalk the Walk on Aug.16, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. at Ely Square in Elyria. The community is invited to attend and create uplifting messages to reduce stigma on substance use and overdose. The event also aims to encourage and support people seeking or currently in recovery from a substance use disorder. This event will lead up to National Overdose Awareness Day on Aug. 31.

“Stigma and judgment remains a major barrier for people seeking help with substance use,” said Health Commissioner Mark Adams, MPH, REHS. “Each of us can play a part in breaking down these barriers by discussing substance use openly with friends and family, and sharing personal stories. The event on August 16 is one safe space to do that.” 

At the free event, chalk is available to anyone who wants to participate. Other attractions include: music, naloxone (Narcan) rescue kits, and food for purchase. Hear local recovery stories throughout the event. Everyone is encouraged to wear purple for overdose awareness. 

In 2024, there were 62 deaths related to an overdose in Lorain County. LCPH distributed 5,126 naloxone rescue kits to Lorain County residents to prevent opioid overdoses. Reports show that those naloxone rescue kits saved 290 people from dying from an opioid overdose.

Saving someone’s life with naloxone provides a chance for that person to seek recovery. To get a free naloxone rescue kit by mail, submit a request at LorainCountyHealth.com/opioids. Or, visit LCPH, 9880 Murray Ridge Road in Elyria, weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. to receive training and pick up a naloxone rescue kit. Call 440-322-6367 to make an appointment for after hours.