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BRIDGTON — Overdose is now the leading cause of death in America for people under 50, surpassing gun homicides and car accidents, according to a news release from the Lakes Region Substance Abuse Coalition. There is now more than a death a day in Maine from opioid overdose.
A panel of public health and safety professionals will present information and ask questions about the crisis at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 15, at the Knights of Columbus of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church. The program is sponsored by the LRSAC. Local agencies will also have a resource fair at the event.
“This is an opportunity for the community to learn what can and is being done to address the opioid epidemic right here in the Lakes Region,” organizers said in the release. Bridgton Hospital staff, Dr. Peter Leighton, Bridgton Police Chief Richard Stillman, Cumberland County Sheriff deputies, state and local legislators, public officials and area clergy will be in attendance.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Treatment, Recovery, Overdose Prevention, 211 Maine Helpline, Emergency Medical Service, Law Enforcement and Lakes Region Substance Abuse Coalition programs will be represented at the resource fair. “Our first responders, community helping agencies and policy makers all need community support to bolster their efforts for combating this national emergency here in the Lakes Region,” the release said. “This is open to all — bring your family, friends and neighbors.”
Refreshments will be served. The coalition meets the second Thursday of the month, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Bridgton Municipal Complex, 3 Chase St., in the downstairs meeting room. There will be no September meeting because of the event.
For more information, visit the coalition’s Facebook page at LRSACMaine.The coalition also seeks community volunteers with time and talent to help. Recovery experience is valued.
