Community Action Partnership Belknap-Merrimack Counties (CAPBM), in partnership with local organizations, recovery advocates, first responders and community members, will host New Hampshire’s community observance of International Overdose Awareness Day on Monday, Aug. 31, from 5 to 7 p.m., on the grounds of the New Hampshire State House in Concord.
This marks the third consecutive year that CAPBM has served as the primary sponsor of the statewide event at the Capitol, which honors the lives lost to overdose, recognizes the grief experienced by families and friends, and promotes hope through prevention, early intervention, treatment, recovery and community support.
As a Community Action Agency serving New Hampshire residents through housing stability, homelessness prevention, substance use outreach and supportive services, CAPBM is committed to working alongside public, private and nonprofit partners to improve the health, safety and well-being of individuals, families and communities across the state. Hosting this annual observance reflects the agency’s mission of bringing people together to address complex community challenges through collaboration, education and compassionate support.
CAPBM is proud to partner with recovery organizations, health care providers, public safety agencies, community organizations, individuals with lived experience, and state and local partners to coordinate New Hampshire’s annual observance of International Overdose Awareness Day. This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to prevention, recovery, reducing stigma and supporting individuals, families and communities affected by substance use disorder.
The event is free and open to the public. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with organizations providing prevention, evidence-based harm reduction, recovery and behavioral health services from across New Hampshire. The evening will also include opportunities for remembrance and reflection while recognizing the importance of compassionate, community-based responses to substance use disorder.
“International Overdose Awareness Day reminds us that every life has value and that recovery is possible,” said Eve Toth, manager of Street Outreach & Housing Stabilization at Community Action Partnership Belknap-Merrimack Counties. “By bringing together community members, service providers and people with lived experience, we hope to honor those we have lost while strengthening our commitment to supporting individuals affected by substance use disorder while celebrating the hope and possibility of recovery.”
Community members, elected officials, health care providers, recovery organizations and anyone wishing to show support are encouraged to attend.
International Overdose Awareness Day is observed annually on Aug. 31 in communities around the world. The observance provides an opportunity to remember those who have lost their lives to overdose, acknowledge the impact on families and communities, reduce stigma associated with substance use disorder, and promote evidence-informed approaches to prevention, treatment, recovery and saving lives. Through education, collaboration and compassion, communities can strengthen awareness and connect individuals and families with the resources and support they need.
Event Information
What: New Hampshire International Overdose Awareness Day
When: Monday, Aug. 31, 2026, 5-7 p.m.
Where: New Hampshire State House, 107 N. Main St., Concord
Cost: Free and open to the public