BUCYRUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)–In recognition of International Overdose Awareness Month, the Crawford Prevention Coalition is hosting a memorial and awareness event on Thursday, August 28, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. to remember those lost to overdose and support their loved ones.
Christi Eckert of the Marion/Crawford Prevention Programs explained the event’s purpose: “To end overdose, to remember those we have lost… and to acknowledge the grief of the family and friends that are left behind.”
The event will begin at the Bucyrus Public Library with speakers, followed by a procession to the Crawford County Arts Center for “Chalk the Walk” and a rock painting activity in memory of loved ones. The evening will conclude at the city fountain with a remembrance ceremony.
Eckert emphasized that addiction is a disease, not a choice, and highlighted the local impact. Crawford County saw 89 unintentional drug overdoses and 11 deaths in 2024. She urged residents to use available resources, such as free Narcan from the Crawford County Health Department or vending machines at Bucyrus and Galion hospitals.