City of Alexandria Celebration to Recognize National Drug and Alcohol Recovery Month

For Immediate Release: September 9, 2024
Media Contact: Mara Jacobs, Opioid Treatment Program Team Leader, [email protected],703.746.3667

Alexandria, Va. - During National Recovery Month in September, the City of Alexandria and communities across the nation recognize the resilience of individuals who have overcome addiction and mental health challenges, while encouraging those in need of support to access community resources.

Join the Department of Community and Human Services (DCHS) on Wednesday, September 25 from 3 to 6 p.m. at Ben Brenman Park (4800 Brenman Park Drive) where all are welcome to show their support of recovery. There will be free food truck meals, information about services and resources, music, games, vendors, swag and special guest speakers. Additional activities highlighting the benefits of art, nutrition, exercise and meditation will take place at the Del Pepper Community Resource Center (4850 Mark Center Drive). Visit the websitefor details.

Substance use disorders (SUD) are often misunderstood and overlooked, but at the heart are people in need of health care and a sense of belonging through social support.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, in 2020, 40.3 million people had a SUD. Across the US, 108,000 people died from a drug overdose in 2023. This prevalence drives the need to ensure that people have access to information that can reduce their risk of harm and support recovery efforts.

DCHS provides access to treatment options and is available 24 hours a day at 703.746.3636 (Virginia Relay 711). To get help with stopping the use of heroin or other opioids, call the Opioid Treatment Program intake line directly at 703.746.3610. All residents are encouraged to obtain Naloxone(Narcan) as a first aid measure for any opioid overdoses they may encounter and to properly dispose of unwanted medicines at permanent drug drop boxesto avoid misuse.

By commemorating National Recovery Month, the City affirms that treatment works, recovery is achievable and the community makes it possible. Come out to show support for recovery.

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For reasonable disability accommodation, call 703.746.5940 or contact [email protected], Virginia Relay 711. If you prefer communication in another language, free interpretation and translation services are available; please email [email protected]or call 703.746.3960.

Alexandria at 275: Celebrate Alexandria's 275th birthday from April through September at alexandriava.gov/ALX275.