Gov. Glenn Youngkin (R-VA) and Virginia first lady Suzanne Youngkin announced Wednesday the expansion of a fentanyl awareness program, emphasizing education and support resources to deal with the overdose epidemic in the Commonwealth.
Suzanne Youngkin began the “It Only Takes One” campaign in January in Roanoke, Virginia, as a pilot. Since then, parents have reported a 12% increase in awareness about the dangers and pervasiveness of fentanyl, and 55% of parents are now more likely to discuss these concerns with their children.
“By expanding this initiative statewide, we hope to ensure that every family has the resources and information needed to protect their children from this deadly threat,” Suzanne Youngkin said in a press release on Wednesday. “This campaign is about turning awareness into real action and making a lasting difference in saving lives.”
In Virginia, there have been 7,000 fentanyl overdose deaths since 2020, accounting for three-fourths of overdose deaths in the Commonwealth.
At least five Virginians die each day due to a fentanyl overdose, according to the Commonwealth’s Department of Health and Human Resources.
The “It Only Takes One” campaign, named such because even one interaction with a small amount of fentanyl can be fatal, started in Roanoke because that is an area hardest hit by the crisis.
The Youngkin administration also began Wednesday the Fentanyl Families Ambassador Program, which aims to help families affected by fentanyl share their stories to raise awareness about the dangers of overdose deaths.
HHR Secretary Janet Kelly said that encouraging families who have lost loved ones to fentanyl “is absolutely essential.”
“These families have lived through unimaginable loss and hardship, and their voices have the power to break down stigma, raise awareness, and inspire action,” Kelly said. “Their stories can change lives, reshape communities, and ultimately help prevent more tragedies.”
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER
Glenn Youngkin said the programs taken together show that the state is “making real progress in the fight against fentanyl.”
“Through stronger policies, enhanced resources in schools, and expanded recovery programs, we are taking critical steps to protect our communities,” the governor said. “With the statewide expansion of It Only Takes One and new Fentanyl Families Ambassador Program, we’re ensuring that families have the tools they need to amplify their stories and save lives across Virginia."
Most Popular
Comments / 0