FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 6, 2025

Contacts: Lisa Batitto, news@drugfreenj.org  

New Jersey Unites for Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day

Today, Communities Statewide Mobilize
 to Educate and Prevent Opioid Misuse

TRENTON - New Jersey residents are coming together today for Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day, a statewide initiative aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of prescription opioid misuse and the growing threat of illicit drugs like fentanyl. This annual observance is spearheaded by the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) in collaboration with the Governor’s Council on Substance Use Disorder, the New Jersey Department of Human Services, and local coalitions and communities.

From Cape May to Sussex, communities are holding educational events, distributing resources, and partnering with local leaders, businesses, schools, and law enforcement to promote lifesaving information. The goal is to reach every resident, regardless of age, with practical strategies to prevent opioid misuse and addiction.

"Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day is not just a single day of action; it’s a call to sustained commitment, compassion, and community education," said Angelo M. Valente, Executive Director of the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey. "Every conversation started today could be a life saved tomorrow. We must all play a role in protecting our families, neighbors, and future generations from this ongoing crisis."

According to the latest state data, 17 of New Jersey’s 21 counties saw a decrease in drug-related deaths in the first half of 2024. However, the epidemic continues to claim lives, especially among adults aged 55 to 64, the group with the highest number of suspected overdose deaths from January through April this year.

In addition to grassroots activities, a free educational webinar, "Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day: Evaluating Recent Progress to Address the Opioid Epidemic," will be held on Thursday, October 9, at 11 a.m., providing deeper insight into the state’s efforts and ongoing challenges.

Visit knockoutday.drugfreenj.org for more information and resources.

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Best known for its statewide substance use prevention advertising campaign, the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey is a private not-for-profit coalition of professionals from the communications, corporate and government communities whose collective mission is to reduce demand for illicit drugs in New Jersey through media communication.  To date, more than $200 million in broadcast time and print space has been donated to the Partnership’s New Jersey campaign, making it the largest public service advertising campaign in New Jersey’s history. Since its inception, the Partnership has garnered 232 advertising and public relations awards from national, regional and statewide media organizations.