“Fentanyl is everywhere.  From large metropolitan areas to rural America, no community is safe from this poison,” according to the administrator of the US Drug Enforcement Agency. Indeed the statistics and headlines are heartbreaking. So what do we do in Castro Valley to keep our youth safe?  This is a question that will be addressed at a free event on Thursday, November 16 from 6:30-8:30 PM at the Castro Valley Center for the Arts.

The event will include a presentation from local experts including April Rovero, Executive Director of the National Coalition Against Prescription Drug Abuse. It will include a panel discussion with youth and school district staff as well as a resource fair where you can pick up a free Narcan overdose rescue kit. You will get information about the drug, risk factors, signs of substance abuse, community resources and information on keeping youth safe. Parents, caregivers, concerned community members and teens are welcome to attend.

Castro Valley Adult and Career Education (CVACE) Director Beth Cutter says, “It’s essential we work together to fight this growing problem.  According to the CDC, over 150 people a day overdose from Fentanyl and other synthetic opioids. We can’t ignore that number, and this event is a good start.” CVACE and the Castro Valley Unified School District are sponsoring the event along with a broad coalition including the National Coalition Against Prescription Drug Abuse, High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas and Tiburcio Vasquez Health Center.

Given the impact this drug has had on the Bay Area, it is important to register for the free event and ensure a spot.  You can register online at CVACE.LINK/FENTANYL or call CVACE at  (510) 886-1000.