Chester County will join communities around the world in recognition of International Overdose Awareness Day, with 68 pinwheels that represent the number of lives lost to accidental overdose in Chester County in 2024. The annual Night of Light will be held on August 27 on the steps of the Chester County Historic Courthouse – an event that is informative, reflective and hopeful.
As part of Chester County’s commitment to tackle the opioid epidemic, the County’s Department of Drug & Alcohol Services is taking part in International Overdose Awareness Day (August 31st, 2025). On this day, the County will join communities around the world in encouraging residents, businesses, and organizations to raise awareness of overdose, reduce the stigma surrounding overdoses and drug-related deaths, remember the lives lost to overdoses, and acknowledge the grief felt by families and friends who have lost a loved one.
As part of the recognition, Chester County will display 68 purple pinwheels on Wednesday, August 27, in front of the County’s Justice Center in West Chester, representing the 68 lives lost to accidental overdoses in Chester County in 2024. From August 27 through September 2, 68 pinwheels will be displayed at the Government Services Center on Westtown Road.
On the evening of Wednesday, August 27, Chester County’s key event, Night of Light, will take place at 6:30pm on the steps of the County’s Historic Courthouse in West Chester. The public is invited to be part of this event, one that is informative, reflective and hopeful.
“Once again, we join communities across Chester County to remember the lives lost to, and those still battling substance use disorders,” said Jamie Johnson, Executive Director of the Chester County Department of Drug & Alcohol Services. “It’s important to note that we continue to have a decrease in overdose fatalities by 20 percent over the last three years, which we attribute to the great work of all our partners including other County departments, providers, families, and board members. It’s not one or two specific actions that have achieved this, but an amazing collaboration involving everyone.
“One life lost to overdose is one too many, and we strive for zero overdose fatalities in Chester County,” added Johnson. She echoes Chester County’s consistent message that “Recovery works, treatment is available, and people do recover from substance use disorders.”
“Night of Light” serves as a remembrance of the lives lost to substance use disorders and brings hope to those working towards long-term recovery. The event helps to support those in need, foster understanding and compassion, and promote awareness of the resources available for Chester County residents. The evening will feature local resource tables, several keynote speakers, and a luminary ceremony to honor loved ones lost and those working towards long-term recovery.
For more information on Night of Light, and for resources on all drug and alcohol services and programs, visit www.chesco.org/DrugandAlcohol, or call the Chester County Information and Referral line at 866-286-3767.
