Summit County Executive Ilene Shapiro and County Council are recognizing August 31 as Overdose Awareness Day and have introduced a resolution acknowledging September as Recovery Month. The announcement highlights years of work to reduce overdose deaths and connect residents with treatment.
“Overdose Awareness Day is an opportunity to remember the lives lost and the families, friends, and communities who continue to feel those losses,” Shapiro said. “It is also a reminder that we have the tools and resources to save lives. By making naloxone more accessible, reducing the stigma surrounding substance use, and connecting people with the support they need, we can continue making progress in our community.”
Overdose Numbers Show a Decline
Data from Summit County Public Health shows 110 residents died from an overdose in 2025, down from 155 deaths in 2024. As of July 20, 2026, the county had recorded 613 presumed overdoses based on emergency department visits and 37 overdose deaths reported so far this year. Statewide, 88% of overdose deaths in Ohio in 2025 involved fentanyl or other opiates.
Public health officials credit years of education and outreach for the improving numbers. Since 2015, Summit County Public Health has partnered with the State of Ohio’s Project DAWN program to provide overdose education and naloxone distribution across the county.
Naloxone Access Expands Countywide
As of the end of July 2026, the health department had distributed 6,806 naloxone kits and trained 352 individuals to respond to an overdose emergency. Community members reported 397 overdose reversals during that time. Residents can find more information about Project DAWN at scph.org.
The county has also placed more than 316 NaloxBoxes throughout Summit County and installed nine vending machines that dispense naloxone and other harm reduction materials. Weekly clinics offer syringe exchange, wound care, fentanyl test strips and Narcan distribution. Clinic locations and hours are listed at scph.org.
Recovery Month Highlights Support and Prevention
Recovery Month follows directly after Overdose Awareness Day, and County Council has introduced a resolution encouraging residents to take part in the observance. The month is sponsored nationally by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and is meant to raise awareness of mental health and substance use disorders while celebrating people in recovery.
“Recovery is possible, achievable, and worth celebrating,” Shapiro said. “We want residents struggling with substance use or mental health challenges to know they are not alone and that resources are available to help. Each of us can play a role in creating a community where asking for help is met with compassion and where recovery is supported without stigma.”
The Executive’s Office has also earned certification as a Recovery Friendly Workplace through a Summit County Public Health program designed to remove barriers and stigma for people affected by addiction. Employers interested in the program can learn more at scph.org/rfw.
Resources for Residents
Residents seeking substance use resources can contact the ADM Addiction Helpline at 330 940 1133. Anyone experiencing a mental health crisis should call or text 988.
FAQs
1. What is Overdose Awareness Day in Summit County?
It is August 31, a day Summit County Executive Ilene Shapiro and County Council have set aside to remember overdose victims and highlight prevention resources.
2. How many Summit County residents died from overdoses in 2025?
Summit County Public Health reported 110 overdose deaths in 2025, a decline from 155 in 2024.
3. Where can Summit County residents get naloxone?
Naloxone is available through more than 316 NaloxBoxes, nine vending machines, weekly harm reduction clinics and the Project DAWN program at scph.org.
4. What is Recovery Month?
Recovery Month is a national observance in September, sponsored by SAMHSA, that raises awareness of substance use and mental health recovery.
5. Who can Summit County residents contact for help?
Residents can call the ADM Addiction Helpline at 330 940 1133, or call or text 988 for a mental health crisis.
