Blog

Every August, communities across the country recognize Overdose Awareness Month, a time dedicated to remembering lives lost, supporting families affected by substance use, and strengthening efforts to prevent future tragedies. Here in Monroe County, this month is an opportunity to come together, raise awareness, reduce stigma, and continue building a community where prevention, education, and…

Summer is one of the busiest seasons in Monroe County. From the 250th anniversary of our nation on July 4th and community festivals to neighborhood picnics and local events, people come together to connect, celebrate, and make memories. These gatherings are also an opportunity to look out for one another. As we spend more time…

Summer is meant to be a season of connection. From concerts and graduation parties to vacations, cookouts, festivals, and long weekends at the beach or lake, people naturally spend more time gathering with friends and family this time of year. While summer brings more opportunities to celebrate, it can also bring increased risk.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month Every day, people in our communities are navigating challenges that aren’t always visible, anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance use. While awareness around mental health has grown, one of the biggest barriers to getting help remains the same: stigma.

Spring cleaning is more than just tidying up—it’s an opportunity to protect your home and your loved ones. By safely disposing of unused or expired medications and reducing access to potentially harmful substances, families can take an important step in preventing misuse and fentanyl-related harm. Small actions at home can make a meaningful difference in…

As March arrives and spring break approaches, many teens in Monroe County will be spending more time with friends, attending social gatherings, and navigating new levels of independence. With these moments come opportunities for connection, and also increased exposure to risky situations. This makes now an important time to talk openly with teens about fentanyl…

February is often thought of as the month of love, and with Valentine’s Day approaching, many of us are already thinking about care, connection, and the people who matter most. This season offers a chance to look at love a little differently—not just as a romantic idea, but as how we show up for ourselves…

January is a time for reflection, and for recommitting ourselves to the work ahead. As we step into a new year, we are taking a moment to look back at the progress made in Monroe County over the past year and to share what’s on the horizon.

The holidays bring together what we value most—family, friends, and community. But amid the cheer, there’s also an increase in risk. With travel, parties, and the pressure to relax or fit in, it’s easy for substance use to slip under the radar. In Monroe County and across Pennsylvania, fentanyl continues to be the leading cause…

In every community, there are people who have felt unseen or unheard — unsure if they belong, if their story matters, or if there’s a place for them to start again. At NorthBound & Co., that feeling of exclusion is what drives their mission: to create spaces where everyone is welcome, especially those navigating barriers…

October is Substance Abuse Prevention Month, a time to shine a light on both prevention and treatment. Substance Use Disorder (SUD) is often misunderstood, but the reality is clear: it’s not a moral failing—it’s a medical condition. Treatment requires a system of care that addresses the full person, and that system should be accessible, compassionate,…

This summer, Deb was everywhere—classrooms, fairs, community events—spreading prevention education and lifesaving resources to people of all ages.

We Fight Fentanyl is proud to announce the launch of a new storytelling podcast: “Dose of Reality.” This ongoing series will feature real voices from people impacted by the opioid epidemic—individuals in recovery, family members, first responders, prevention advocates, and community leaders.

Summer should be a time for sunshine, fun, and freedom—but it also comes with risks, especially for children and teens navigating peer pressure, boredom, and unstructured time. At We Fight Fentanyl, we believe prevention doesn’t stop when school lets out. In fact, summer is one of the most important times to stay informed, engaged, and…

In Monroe County, prevention doesn’t take a summer break—and neither does Debra Hartley. As a passionate prevention specialist and community educator, Deb is taking bold steps this summer to engage youth, families, and local organizations across our County with programs designed to empower, educate, and protect.

At We Fight Fentanyl, we understand that getting help for substance use disorder isn’t always simple. Transportation challenges, confusion about where to start, and long wait times can make an already difficult situation feel impossible. That’s why we’re excited to introduce Recovery Route, a new program designed to eliminate barriers and make access to treatment…

When we met with Laycia Ianniello, her strength was undeniable. At just 16 years old, she has faced a loss no child should ever have to endure—the passing of her father due to fentanyl. Despite the pain, Laycia has turned her grief into advocacy, using her voice to spread awareness and prevent other families from…

Monroe County has made significant strides in the battle against fentanyl, with the community coming together to combat this crisis. In a recent interview, we spoke with a Certified Recovery Specialist (CRS), who shared valuable insights into the progress being made, the challenges that remain, and the hope for the future.