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'Light Up Purple' for Overdose Awarness Month

August 1, 2025  |  light up purple, overdose, Prevention

Each August, communities across the globe observe Overdose Awareness Month—a time to remember those lost to overdose, support the people left behind, and spread hope for recovery and prevention. Locally, MHRB is leading the #LightUpPurpleWC campaign, inviting homeowners, businesses, and local governments in Warren and Clinton Counties to help turn our communities purple in remembrance and action.

Why Overdose Awareness Month Matters

Overdose remains a leading cause of preventable death across the country. Observing this month helps reduce stigma, honors lives lost, and opens up conversations about substance use, recovery, and support. It’s also an opportunity to educate the public, connect people with lifesaving resources, and encourage prevention efforts. Lighting up purple is a small action that makes a powerful statement: every life is worth saving.

How to Participate in #LightUpPurpleWC

There are many ways to join the campaign:

  • Homeowners can light up porches, windows, or yard lights in purple throughout August and share photos on social media using #LightUpPurpleWC and tagging @MHRBWCC.

  • Businesses can light up storefronts, display prevention materials, and promote overdose awareness online and in-store.

  • Local governments can illuminate public buildings, issue proclamations, and host community events or trainings.

Downloadable posters, flyers, and social media graphics are available on our campaign page to help you show your support.

What You Can Do to Help Prevent Overdose

Participation is just the start. Help prevent overdose in your community by:

  • Carrying Naloxone (Narcan), which reverses opioid overdoses. It’s available at pharmacies and through Talbert House in Lebanon—no prescription needed.

  • Learning to recognize an overdose and calling 911 immediately if you suspect one.

  • Disposing of medications safely through local drop boxes or Take Back Days.

  • Supporting loved ones in recovery and connecting them with resources for treatment and support.

  • Spreading awareness about harm reduction, mental health, and the importance of compassionate conversations.

Join the Movement

Help us light the way to healing, prevention, and hope. Whether it’s your porch, business, or city building—every light matters. Show your purple, start a conversation, and help us remember those we’ve lost and protect those we can still reach.

 

Visit mhrbwcc.org/lightuppurplewc for resources, graphics, and more ways to get involved.