PITTSBURGH – The Allegheny County Health Department will host the fourth annual International Overdose Awareness Resource Fair at Allegheny Commons on Friday, Aug. 29, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Officials say the United States continues to struggle with the reality of fatal drug overdoses, particularly fentanyl in 2025. The ACHD, the Department of Human Services, and city leaders are urging residents to stay informed about the available resources to help prevent the crisis from deepening.
The department’s Small Changes, Big Differences campaign encourages simple, everyday actions to reduce overdose related deaths. Free fentanyl testing strips and Naloxone (also called Narcan), a medication that can reverse opioid overdoses, are available through county resources.
“Simple, everyday methods of improving health and safety are the first step toward ending the overdose crisis,” ACHD officials said in a statement. “Actions taken together create much needed change. Small changes make big differences.”
More than 25 community organizations will be present at the resource fair to provide information on substance use treatment, case management, and peer support.
“It doesn’t matter what drugs you use, there’s always a way to stay safe,” said Nate, a county harm reduction advocate.
Harm reduction, officials noted, is a nonjudgmental approach to drug prevention and safety. Clean syringe programs, mental health services, and crisis support are among the harm reduction options offered in Allegheny County.
Supporters say harm reduction centers provide practical information and advice, giving people more control over their health decisions. Advocates add that this approach has proven to be effective in connecting residents to treatment, recovery, mental health care, and other vital services.
