(Sewell, NJ)—The Gloucester County Board of Commissioners and the Gloucester County Addictions Task Force will hold the 6th Annual Candlelight Vigil on Tuesday, August 31 at James G. Atkinson Park.
This event will raise awareness of opioid overdose and reduce the stigma of a drug-related death. The vigil will begin at dusk while resource tables will open at 6 p.m.
“We are gathering safely to celebrate those in recovery and honor those who have lost their lives to addiction,” said Commissioner Director Robert M. Damminger. “Substance abuse is often misunderstood or overlooked. By bringing awareness to the topic, we hope to bring more people to the resources to get help.”
The Gloucester County Addictions Task Force is still accepting names to honor during the 2021 memorial. If you have a loved one that you would like to be included in the memorial, please complete and return the 2021 Vigil Form , along with a photo, to rmunson@co.gloucester.nj.us.
If your loved one has been honored in past memorials and you’d like to participate again, please re-register by filling out the 2021 Vigil Form , along with a photo, to rmunson@co.gloucester.nj.us.
All attendees are asked to wear masks and practice social distancing. Please bring your own chair, blanket and water.
“You do not need to be a professional to help. Substance abuse is not always visible, but with understanding and empathy we can help individuals affected,” said Commissioner Jim Jefferson. Commissioner Jefferson is the liaison to the Division of Human and Disability Services.
The vigil will begin at dusk and will be held rain or shine at James Atkinson Park; 138 Bethel Mill Rd. Sewell, NJ 08080.
For more information, please visit www.gloucestercountynj.gov or call (856) 384-6929.