CARMEL, N.Y. – Putnam County officials received some welcome news this week: only two residents have died from drug overdoses in 2024, a significant drop from 14 deaths in 2023 and 24 in 2022, according to county records.
The announcement came during a Putnam County Legislature meeting on Tuesday evening, where lawmakers acknowledged the improvement while cautioning that the fight against substance abuse is far from over.
Honoring Lives Lost and Raising Awareness
In recognition of ongoing challenges, legislators proclaimed August 31 as International Overdose Awareness Day in Putnam County, part of a global effort to remember those lost to overdose and to reduce the stigma surrounding drug-related deaths.
Legislator Erin Crowley highlighted the broader impact of addiction, saying, “Countless others were affected forever by the scourge, including sons and daughters, mothers and fathers, brothers and sisters – all deserving our love, compassion and support.”
Community Collaboration and Continued Vigilance
During the meeting, Naura Slavinsky of Arms Acres, a local treatment and recovery center, accepted a formal proclamation from lawmakers and thanked them for their continued support. She reminded those in attendance, “One life lost is one too many.”
Despite the decline in deaths, officials emphasized that drug abuse remains a persistent threat in the county. A coalition of professionals from more than two dozen local organizations has formed to develop long-term strategies aimed at reducing both fatal and non-fatal overdoses.
This collaborative approach includes representatives from public health, law enforcement, education, addiction services, and other sectors who are working together to combat the opioid crisis at the local level.
National Trends Still a Concern
While Putnam County’s numbers are down, national data remains troubling. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), overdoses continue to be one of the leading causes of injury-related deaths in the United States. The CDC reports that the majority of overdose deaths involve opioids, and deaths tied to synthetic opioids and stimulants have been on the rise in recent years.
Local leaders say the county’s improvement is a hopeful sign, but continued funding, education, and community support are essential to maintain momentum and save lives.
Residents are encouraged to participate in International Overdose Awareness Day events later this month to show support for prevention efforts and honor the memories of those lost.
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