North Iowa Harm Reduction Coalition to Host Overdose Awareness Vigil Aug. 31 in Mason City

MASON CITY, Iowa — The North Iowa Harm Reduction Coalition will hold a public observance for International Overdose Awareness Day on Monday, Aug. 31, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Central Park in downtown Mason City.

The annual event honors people who have died of overdose, supports grieving families and connects North Iowa residents with community resources, according to the coalition. Attendees can meet with local organizations focused on substance use recovery, mental health support and harm reduction tools.

“Overdose impacts families across every neighborhood in North Iowa, and no one should navigate loss or recovery in isolation,” said Sam Severson, disease prevention nurse at CG Public Health and a member of the coalition. “This evening is dedicated to honoring those we have lost, breaking down the stigma that keeps people from seeking help, and offering real support and compassion to our community.”

The evening opens with a community resource fair and networking from 6 to 6:45 p.m. Organizers will then lead a public reading of the names of individuals who have died from overdose during a memorial and reflection period from 6:45 to 7:15 p.m.

A community meal follows from 7:15 to 7:30 p.m., meant to foster open conversation among attendees. The event concludes with a silent remembrance walk through Central Park from 7:30 to 8 p.m.

The observance is free and open to the public, including families, advocates and community partners. It will take place at Central Park, located in downtown Mason City, Iowa 50401.

More information about the event and harm reduction resources in North Iowa is available on the North Iowa Harm Reduction Coalition’s Facebook page.