The Union County Board of County Commissioners would like to invite all residents to participate in upcoming Opioid Settlement Funds Listening Sessions. The County will be holding these in-person sessions to gather public input on allocating the resources from the Opioid Settlement Funds.
“The County of Union recognizes the importance of community involvement and values the contributions of its residents in the ongoing fight against opioid addiction,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “By working together, we can make a meaningful impact on the lives of those affected by this and create a stronger, healthier, and safer community. Your input matters, so I hope to see many in attendance.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 75% of drug overdose deaths in the United States involved opioids in 2020. Eighty-two percent of those deaths involved the newer, synthetic opioids, like fentanyl, that affect communities like ours.
The following are the two dates and locations scheduled for the listening sessions, please register at www.ucnj.org/dhs/opioid-settlement/ to ensure a spot at each location:
August 8, 2023
6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Plainfield Public Library
800 Park Avenue, Plainfield, NJ
September 14, 2023
6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Elizabeth Public Library
11 South Broad Street, Elizabeth, NJ
“These sessions will provide an opportunity for our residents to address their concerns, contribute ideas, and get the most up to date information we have available,” Commissioner James Baker, Liaison for the Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Advisory Board said. “Working together, our community leaders and residents are more effective in solving this epidemic.”
During these sessions, participants will have a unique opportunity to share their experiences, express their concerns, and offer suggestions on how best to utilize the Opioid Settlement Funds. The insights and perspectives shared by the residents of Union County will be pivotal in shaping the county’s approach towards combating opioid addiction and enhancing community well-being.
For more information or to register to attend one of the Opioid Listening Sessions, please visit online at https://ucnj.org/dhs/opioid-settlement/ or contact Miriam Cortez, Director, Office on Behavioral Health and Substance Abuse, by email at Miriam.Cortez@ucnj.org or by phone at 908-527-4846.