Overdose Awareness Day Set for August 31 in Yakima

It's been a deadly year in Yakima so far with 48 people who have died from drug overdoses in Yakima County. Yakima County Coroner Jim Curtice says he works with families who have been impacted and he speaks around the area to urge parents and others to do what they can to stop the overdoses.

A special day is planned in Yakima at the end of the month

In an effort to remember those who have died communities in the valley and around the state will come together at the end of the month for International Overdose Awareness Day. The day is set for August 31 and it seeks to create "better understanding of overdose, reduce the stigma of drug-related deaths, and create change that reduces the harms associated with drug use."

Triumph officials say it's a time to remember those who have died

Officials with Yakima's Triumph Treatment Center is hosting the 6th annual Yakima event at Sarg Hubbard Park at 111 South 18th Avenue on August 31. The event will be held from 3:30 pm to 6:30 pm and will include speakers "including community leaders and individuals affected by overdose, as well as booths from community partners who provide substance use treatment, mental health treatment, and other related services."
Triumph officials say "by holding an event this year, the people of Yakima are joining themselves to a global movement for understanding, compassion, and change."

Many are being killed by a deadly drug on the streets of Yakima

Yakima County Coroner Jim Curtice says of the 48 people who have died of an overdose this year more than 70% have died from the deadly drug fentanyl.