Over 2,800 New Jerseyans died from drug use in 2022. The opioid epidemic killed over 100,000 Americans in the last year. The state has launched many programs to bring these numbers down — most recently including a risk messaging campaign. The Department of Human Services awarded a $1 million contract to New Jersey Prevention Network for this campaign.

The funding would help distribute risk messaging targeted at youth, young adults, parents and caregivers across New Jersey. The program would share information that is vital to saving lives and preventing substance abuse and overdoses. NJPN’s marketing materials will be used on radio, print and social media platforms, as well as billboards and public transit advertising.

“Young people may not fully comprehend the risks they take when they engage in underage substance use, or experiment with illicit substances or prescription medications that are either intended for someone else or not taken as prescribed,” said  Commissioner Sarah Adelman. “Through this effort, we hope to educate and raise awareness about the hazards of misusing these substances and the potential long-terms effects to help young New Jerseyans make informed decisions and avoid the pitfalls.”