Blog
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Data Reinforces Need for Equity in Opioid Addiction Treatment
A recent STAT News article highlights troubling new findings: Black and Hispanic patients are significantly less likely to receive key medications for opioid addiction within six months of a substance use-related health event. Specifically, Black patients were 17.1% less likely, and Hispanic patients 16.2% less likely, to receive these treatments compared to white patients.
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National Night Out – Tuesday August 5
I want to encourage individuals and community agencies to participate in National Night Out on Tuesday, August 5. This annual event has taken place for decades to provide a friendly neighborhood environment for families to come out for a good time. It also provides residents the opportunity to strengthen relationships among neighbors, law enforcement and other groups and organizations interested in promoting the health and safety of their communities. Many municipal law enforcement officers will be hosting cookouts, block parties and other community-based events.
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Significant Decline in Overdose Deaths Among Younger Adults
In our ongoing effort to reduce the harm caused by opioids, it is heartening to read this recent story from NPR, “Drug Deaths Plummet among Young Americans as Fentanyl Carnage Eases,” which shows our hard work in prevention and outreach is paying off and saving lives.
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Funding and Access: Key to Saving Lives in the Opioid Crisis
As the opioid crisis continues to devastate communities across the country, effective responses depend not only on compassion and science but also on ensuring access to life-saving tools like naloxone. A recent opinion piece in The Hill emphasizes that targeted funding and a public health approach are essential for turning the tide on overdose deaths. Read the full article here.
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Ketamine Being Used by NJ Practitioners to Treat Depression
We have come a long way in our efforts to treat mental health problems and reduce the stigma that exists. Providing the specific behavioral and medical treatment needed for each individual with a mental health issue is an ongoing challenge.
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Have a Safe & Happy Fourth of July!
This Friday we celebrate the Fourth of July. I hope that you are able to enjoy with family and friends.
All of us at the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey would like to thank our partners in the prevention, treatment, law enforcement, and medical communities for their focus on breaking the cycle of dependency.
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A Day of Healthy Choices at St. Francis Academy
On Tuesday, June 17, third graders at St. Francis Academy in Union City enjoyed a special visit that focused on fun, learning, and making smart choices for their future. The PSEG Foundation joined us for this event as part of a statewide initiative to promote healthy, drug-free living among young students.
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Advocating for Appropriate Use of Opioid Settlement Funds
I encourage you to register for an upcoming webinar hosted by Fed Up, scheduled for June 24. The webinar will focus on the challenges with the potential misuse of opioid settlement funds, and how advocates are dealing with those challenges across the country. Fed Up is national coalition of families affected by the opioid crisis, as well as medical experts and other advocates in the field.
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New Jersey’s Overdose Deaths Drop - But the Work Isn’t Done
There’s encouraging news in New Jersey’s battle against the opioid crisis: the Office of the Chief State Medical Examiner reported that overdose deaths dropped by 30% in 2024. That’s a major shift, outpacing the national average by more than 10%. Still, 1,813 lives were lost. This isn’t a victory. It’s progress and a call to keep pushing forward.
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PSE&G, PSEG Foundation & Ray Lucas Honored at PDFNJ Gala
I want to take a moment to thank our sponsors, benefactors and guests who all contributed to a memorable and successful Angel of Hope Gala, the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey’s major fundraiser, which took place at the Liberty House in Jersey City on May 14. The gala's Doo Wop Extravaganza theme came to life through vibrant 1950s-inspired décor, cuisine, and a performance by The Doo Wop Project, creating an unforgettable atmosphere of celebration and community.