March 5, 2020
CONTACT: Kara Kane
Email: kara.kane@erie.gov  
Phone: (716) 858-4941 

ERIE COUNTY OPIATE EPIDEMIC TASK FORCE TO HOLD BLACK BALLOON DAY EVENT ON MARCH 6

ERIE COUNTY, NY— The Erie County Opiate Epidemic Task Force and its Families and Consumer Support & Advocacy group will host an awareness event for National Black Balloon Day on Friday, March 6 from 6-8 p.m. at the Old Erie County Hall in Buffalo.

This event focuses on remembering individuals in Erie County who passed away as a result of opioid use. Parents, family members and friends who have faced the loss of a loved one who struggled with substance use are welcomed at this safe and supportive event.

“We are committed to supporting families who have been affected by the opioid epidemic,” said Erie County Commissioner of Health Dr. Gale Burstein. “As we acknowledge the loss of these individuals in our community, we can give hope and strength to families who chave loved ones who are living with an opioid use disorder.”

Scheduled speakers:

• Erie County Commissioner of Health Dr. Gale Burstein
• Reverend Arthur Boyd of GROUP Ministries and Second Chance Ministries
• Mike Adler, 1st Assistant Attorney, U.S. District Attorney’s Office             
• Jeannie Kline, Erie County Opiate Epidemic Task Force, Family and Consumer Advocacy Group

As part of the event, attendees will be given black balloons to take home and tie to their front porch, mailbox or other visible location.

WHAT: National Black Balloon Day Event with the Erie County Opiate Epidemic Task Force

WHEN: Friday, March 6, 6- 8 p.m.

WHERE: Old Erie County Hall, Second One Ceremonial Courtroom
92 Franklin Street, Buffalo, NY

On site media contact: Cheryll Moore, Director of the Erie County Opiate Epidemic Task Force  

Event Flyer

###