SOMERS POINT — In 2024, 151 people in Atlantic County died from preventable overdoses.
But on Saturday, for Overdose Awareness Day, about 80 community members gathered at William Morrow Beach on Bay Avenue to push for a future where that number is zero.
Hosted by Andy’s Glow Foundation and Not 0ne More, organizations dedicated to ending the overdose crisis, the event brought together families, advocates, people in recovery and community organizations to honor those lost to overdose, share lifesaving resources and call for action to prevent further deaths.
“Saturday was more than an event, it was a moment of remembrance, love, and hope,” said Kathy Rivero-Robinson, founder of Andy’s Glow Foundation. “We gathered to remember the beautiful lives we have lost, to honor the families and friends who carry that loss every single day, and to remind those who are still struggling that they are seen, they are loved, and they are not alone.”
The 151 preventable overdose deaths recorded in Atlantic County in 2024 were down from 160 in 2023, according to the latest available data.
But for the families who are still in mourning, the numbers represented much more than statistics.
Family members shared stories and memories of loved ones lost to overdose. At the close of the event, participants dropped purple flowers into the bay to honor their memories.
James Schiavo, a member of Not 0ne More, shared his own experience with opioid addiction, overdose and recovery as a way to highlight the importance of treatment and harm reduction.
“I lost my leg, from a direct result of an opioid overdose. I used opiates for nearly 20 years. I lost my brother, he meant the world to me,” Schiavo said. “I know everyone’s experience and recovery is different. But for me, medication-assisted treatment, or MAT, has been really important. And I want to share that MAT and harm reduction help end the overdose crisis.”
Participants encouraged overdose prevention by distributing naloxone, an opioid-blocking medication, and connecting residents with support services and referrals from organizations working in the community.
The gathering also put a spotlight on opioid settlement funds and whether they’re being used to directly address the damage caused by the overdose crisis.
The funds come from lawsuits against opioid manufacturers, distributors, pharmacies and other companies accused of fueling the crisis. Under New Jersey’s settlement guidelines, the money is intended for opioid remediation — not general government spending.
Participants pointed to a recent NJ.com article featuring John Armato, a former state assemblyman from Atlantic County who served as master of ceremonies Saturday and whose son died of a drug overdose. The article examined how municipalities are spending settlement dollars and questioned whether some expenditures are truly addressing the crisis.
One example drew particular attention: Atlantic City’s reported $73,000 purchase of an electric Mustang using opioid settlement funds.
Participants said people and families directly affected by overdose should have a say in how those dollars are spent.
Atlantic City residents and community members who provide services in the city will continue the conversation at a meeting scheduled for 1 to 3 p.m. Sept. 19 at Stanley Holmes Village, 1539 Adriatic Ave.
Organizers said the meeting will focus on overdose prevention, harm reduction and how opioid settlement funds can be used to address the crisis.