Local healthcare stakeholders are set to host the third annual “Listen & Learn About the Opioid Epidemic” on April 30 at 5:30 p.m. at the Main Library at 7711 Goodwood Boulevard. This free event serves as an open discussion forum for the community to discuss the local opioid epidemic, hear personal stories and experiences, and get connected to resources. This annual “Listen & Learn” is hosted by the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH), in collaboration with the Louisiana Primary Care Association, Louisiana Ambulance Alliance - End the Epidemic, Capital Area Human Services, and the East Baton Rouge Parish Library.
Registration is free and open to all individuals interested in joining the conversation on addiction, recovery, and community support. The event welcomes individuals from various backgrounds, including but not limited to persons in recovery, family members of survivors, recovery advocates, healthcare providers, community leaders, faith-based leaders, parents, grandparents, policymakers, and others.
Attendees will have the opportunity to:
· Hear personal stories of recovery and resilience.
· Gain insights from recovery services on the use of NARCAN and fentanyl test strips.
· Connect with a wide range of resources to support recovery efforts.
A light meal will be provided, and NARCAN will be available onsite for those who have registered.
“We encourage members of our community to come out and join us for this engaging event,” said Trudy Wickham, LDH Opioid Prevention Outreach Coordinator for Region 2. “Too many families across our capital region continue to be impacted by drug abuse and opioid addiction. Through this event, we hope to foster active listening to reduce stigma, share community resources, exchange stories and, most importantly, inspire hope.”
Since its inception in 2022, this event has aimed to bridge gaps in care for those affected by addiction, fostering connections between emergency services, law enforcement, and treatment, recovery, and housing programs in East Baton Rouge. It has served as an open discussion platform, offering stories of hope and recovery while addressing the challenges of addiction and relapse prevention.
For inquiries regarding the event, reach out to Trudy Wickham at trudy.wickham@la.gov.