“`html
Annapolis to Host Free Legal Services and Overdose Prevention Workshop
Table of Contents
Annapolis residents will have access to free legal assistance and vital overdose prevention resources at a workshop hosted by the City of Annapolis mayor’s Office, through its NapTown Anti-Dope Movement (N.A.M.). The event, a collaboration with Community Legal Services and the Maryland Department of Health, aims to address the ongoing opioid crisis and provide pathways to support and legal clarity.
The workshop will focus on two key areas: navigating drug-related legal challenges and equipping individuals with the knowledge and tools to respond to and prevent overdoses. Specifically, attendees can receive data about expungement of past drug convictions, perhaps opening doors to employment and housing opportunities.
Workshop Details
| Date | Time | Location | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| October 26, 2023 | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM | Annapolis City Hall | Expungement & Overdose Prevention |
Community Legal Services will provide on-site consultations regarding eligibility for expungement. Representatives from the Maryland Department of Health will distribute naloxone, a life-saving medication that can reverse opioid overdoses, and provide training on its management. This workshop is a critical step in supporting our community and offering resources to those impacted by the opioid crisis,
stated a representative from the mayor’s Office.
Did you Know?
Maryland law allows for the expungement of certain drug-related convictions, offering a second chance for individuals seeking to rebuild their lives.
Addressing the Opioid Crisis in Annapolis
Annapolis, like many communities across the nation, has been considerably impacted by the opioid epidemic. The N.A.M. initiative, launched earlier this year, represents a proactive approach to harm reduction and community support. The workshop builds upon existing efforts to increase access to treatment and recovery services. According to the Maryland Department of Health, overdose deaths continue to be a major public health concern, highlighting the urgent need for prevention and intervention strategies. Maryland Department of Health Opioid Crisis Response
pro Tip:
Familiarize yourself with the signs of an opioid overdose and how to administer naloxone – it coudl save a life.
Event agenda
- 6:00 PM – 6:30 PM: Registration & Welcome
- 6:30 PM – 7:15 PM: Expungement Information Session (Community Legal Services)
- 7:15 PM – 8:00 PM: overdose Prevention Training & Naloxone distribution (Maryland Department of Health)
“We are committed to providing our residents with the resources they need to overcome challenges and build a brighter future,” said Annapolis Mayor Gavin Buckley.
The event is free and open to all Annapolis residents. No registration is required.
What steps can the city take to further expand access to addiction treatment services? How can community members contribute to overdose prevention efforts in Annapolis?
Background: The Opioid Crisis & Harm Reduction
The opioid crisis is a complex public health issue with deep roots in prescription drug oversupply, the rise of synthetic opioids like fentanyl, and socioeconomic factors. Harm reduction strategies, such as naloxone distribution and syringe exchange programs, are evidence-based approaches to minimizing the negative consequences of drug use and connecting individuals with treatment. The City of Annapolis’s N.A.M. initiative reflects a growing national trend towards prioritizing public health and community-based solutions.
Frequently Asked questions
- What is expungement? Expungement is a legal process that removes a criminal record, making it inaccessible to the public.
