The Northport/East Northport Drug and Alcohol Task Force (NENDATF) invites you to attend a press conference at 12 p.m. on August 31, 2023—International Opioid Awareness Day—at Northport Village Hall, 224 Main St, Northport, NY 11768. You are also encouraged to participate in a candlelight vigil later that day in Northport Village Park at the foot of Main Street from 7 to 9 p.m.

We will be raising the RECOVERY FLAG for the 1st time at Northport Village Hall!

The devastating fallout of opioid addiction on Long Island and across the U.S. is a clarion call to action for all sectors of local communities, as well as for lawmakers and other elected officials.

This year’s International Opioid Awareness Day theme is “Recognizing those people who go unseen.” Each overdose unleashes a negative life-altering effect on many others: family members, of course, but also friends, coworkers, teachers and other mentors, workers in healthcare and support services, and first responders. The ripple effect extends throughout the community.

The August 31 press conference will serve multiple purposes: recognize the “unseen” victims of opioid use; raise awareness of the nature and consequences of the crisis; explain the NENDATF’s challenges and successes; and inform all community members and organizations of opportunities to support the vital mission. Northport Mayor Donna Koch will present proclamations to Fire Chief Douglas Pyne and Police Chief Chris Hughes. Educators, student leaders, and representatives of various community organizations will be on hand to answer questions and share ideas. The event will be an opportunity to forge relationships that strengthen efforts to combat drug addiction.

Join Us!!!