Mayor proclaims International Overdose Awareness Day; local treatment providers outline services and event

Mayor Hurd read a proclamation designating Aug. 28, 2025, in Abilene as International Overdose Awareness Day and encouraged the community to display purple lights in remembrance of those lost to overdose.

The proclamation recognized substance use disorder and overdose as a public‑health problem that affects families across the community and cited Abilene Absolute Recovery Solutions as "a committed advocate" working to combat the opioid epidemic in the city. Dr. Jasmine Michalski, who identified herself as affiliated with Abilene Absolute Recovery Solutions, spoke after the proclamation; she said the clinic prescribes buprenorphine and methadone and announced an event on Aug. 31 at the clinic.

Crystal Lewis, founder of Jaren's Hope (a newly registered nonprofit), also addressed the council during public comment and said the organization aims to build a residential treatment program for youth. Lewis told the council Jaren's Hope is now formally licensed and asked for support, including help with permits and grant writing. Lewis cited recent overdose response figures she attributed to local records: "Last year, there were 274 calls for overdoses, 10 fatalities, 7 of those being fentanyl related. In 2025, there have been 155 calls and 3 fatalities so far," she said.

Dorothy Clay, who identified herself as a board member of Jaren's Hope, noted the federal HALT Fentanyl Act and advocated continued community partnership and financial support to open facilities that offer youth treatment.

The mayor presented the proclamation on behalf of the council; no formal council vote was required for the proclamation reading. Providers encouraged residents to participate in local remembrance and outreach events and to contact their organizations for resources.