Drug overdose deaths in North Carolina, particularly Buncombe County, are on the rise. In 2022, 151 people in the county lost their lives to drug overdoses, with over 90% of those deaths being unintentional, according to data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services.
August 31 is International Overdose Awareness Day, a time to recognize this tragic loss and promote local resources to prevent further overdoses.
Buncombe County is partnering with SeekHealing for an Overdose Awareness Day Ceremony on Saturday, August 31 at Carrier Park from noon to 5 p.m.
Drugs and opioids impact all of us; it can be your partner, friends, neighbors, family members, or other loved ones. We encourage everyone to reach out for help and access life-saving support.
Knowing that 40 percent of overdose deaths occur while a bystander is present, Buncombe County Health and Human Services Harm Reduction program provides Fentanyl and Xylazine test strips at 40 Coxe Avenue, open Monday through Friday from noon to 4 p.m. The program also offers:
- Harm reduction supplies
- Linkage to community resources and medical care,
- Testing and treatment for STI
- Free overdose reversal trainings on the first Friday of the month
Opioid Settlement Funds
The County supports various life-saving programs using funds allocated from a $29 million opioid settlement being distributed over the next 14 years.
- Post Overdose Response Team
- Harm Reduction Services
- Naloxone Distribution
- Community Reentry Team
- Hope & Healing Campaign
- Community Conversations Event
The Community Paramedic Program
The Community Paramedic Program helps individuals at high risk of overdose access treatment and support with promising results. Since its inception, 402 individuals have started treatment, with 53% continuing in care. Some have even become certified peer specialists.
To learn more about how the Community Paramedics Mental Health Clinician team works with those engaged in services watch this video.
Dr. Shuchin Shukla, the County’s Medical Substance Use Professional who is providing consultation services, says “Opioid use disorder, addiction, and overdose are absolutely preventable and treatable medical conditions. It is up to all of us to work together to improve access to these critical resources for those who are most vulnerable.”
Overdose Awareness Day Ceremony
Where: Carrier Park - 220 Amboy Road, Asheville
When: Saturday, Aug. 31, Noon-5 p.m.
What: Collective reflection and support for those affected by overdose. The event will include a community lunch, panel discussion, and more.
Who: Everyone is welcome
Support for individuals experiencing opioid use disorder and their loved ones is available, regardless of insurance coverage. Go to www.buncombecounty.org/safer for more information.