Steuben County Launches Opioid Awareness PSA Campaign

Steuben County has launched a new public service announcement (PSA) campaign aimed at raising awareness about opioid use, reducing stigma, and connecting residents with resources for treatment and recovery. The initiative, developed in collaboration with the New York State Association of Counties (NYSAC) and Trellis Marketing, Inc., comes in response to the growing impact of opioid-related overdoses in the region.

The campaign, which will run for a year, utilizes multimedia messaging to educate the public about the risks of opioid use and the dangers associated with recreational drug use, particularly the presence of illicit fentanyl. Since 2020, the county has recorded more than 800 overdoses, prompting officials to seek new ways to address the crisis.

“Steuben County is proud to partner with Trellis on this important program,” said Jack Wheeler, Steuben County Manager. “Our plan is that our year-long campaign will educate people about the disease of opioid use disorder, inform them of the dangers of recreational drug use, reduce stigma, and ultimately inspire more residents to be connected to the supports they need.”

The initiative builds on efforts that began in 2018 when the New York State Coroners Association first raised concerns about the rising number of opioid-related deaths. That discussion led to the development of statewide educational campaigns, with Trellis Marketing creating messaging designed to resonate with the public and encourage those struggling with addiction to seek help.

A growing concern highlighted by the campaign is the shifting demographic of opioid-related overdoses. While younger individuals were once the primary victims, data now shows an increasing number of cases among older adults in their 50s and 60s. Officials say this shift is largely due to fentanyl-laced substances being unknowingly consumed by recreational drug users.

Steve Acquario, executive director of NYSAC, emphasized the importance of county-level action.

“Our counties continue to confront the effects of substance use disorder in our communities every day,” he said. “We appreciate Steuben County’s leadership in fighting the opioid crisis, and we are pleased to endorse this PSA campaign, which highlights the dangers of opioid use, reduces stigma, and encourages recovery through real stories of hope.”

The campaign’s materials will be featured in various media formats, including television, radio, and social media, aiming to reach a broad audience across the county.

For more information on Steuben County’s opioid awareness campaign and available resources, residents can visit SteubenHope.org.