CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — The Ross County Board of Commissioners signed a proclamation Monday designating August 30 as Overdose Awareness Day in Ross County.
“One life lost to overdose is one too many,” said Jack Everson, President of the Ross County Board of Commissioners.
As part of Overdose Awareness Month, the Ross County Health District (RCHD) launched the Purple Light Campaign, inviting local businesses to display purple lights in storefront windows to support overdose prevention, recovery, and remembrance. Businesses can participate by completing a survey at RCHD’s website.
Community partners also collaborated to paint downtown business storefronts to promote Hope Fest, an annual event celebrating recovery and reducing stigma around overdose.
The RCHD’s mobile medical unit will be present at Hope Fest on Saturday, August 30, 2025, from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. in Yoctangee Park. The event will offer free food, music, community resources, and family-friendly activities to support survivors and the community affected by overdose.