Natick will once again be among the local communities displaying purple flags to recognize lives lost in Massachusetts to opioid overdoses this past year. That number is cited as being 2,357 (see additional stats from the state).
SOAR Natick is seeking volunteers to help install each of these displays over the next several weeks (contact SOARnatick@gmail.com with questions):
- Natick – Aug. 25 (postponed until 8am on Aug. 26 due to rain on Friday)
- Newton – Sept. 11
- Boston – Sept. 24
The flags will be displayed in Natick at the First Congregational Church at 2 East Central St. downtown from Aug. 25-Sept. 10.
In addition to the purple flags, red flags are also placed by family members and friends to remember the lives lost in any year to substance use.
In a conversation with Natick Police Chief James Hicks on Thursday, we learned that local deaths are down but that overdoses continue. He cited success with a program to equip and train friends and family of those addicted to opioids with Narcan (naxalone).
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