NEW YORK- Landmarks around New York were lit up in purple on Sunday evening in recognition of International Overdose Awareness Day in honor of those who lost their lives to overdose.
“Like many New Yorkers, I have witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of the overdose epidemic,” said Governor Kathy Hochul. “On International Overdose Awareness Day, we reflect on the lives lost to addiction and offer our support to those who continue to struggle.”
While Governor Hochul reported the progress the state has made in combating overdose deaths in recent years, some parts of the state continue to see a high frequency of overdose deaths. The New York City metropolitan area recorded the greatest number of fatal overdoses during 2023, and Western New York had the highest rate (38.5 deaths per