Communities across New Jersey marked Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day on October 6, bringing opioid prevention information directly to families, schools and local neighbourhoods. The annual initiative, organised by the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey together with state and community partners, is now in its 11th year.

One of this year’s activities took place in Union City, where eighth-grade students from St. Francis Academy joined volunteers to distribute information about opioid risks to shoppers and local businesses. Materials were available in both English and Spanish, helping the campaign reach families across the community.

The involvement of students was deliberate. Rather than treating young people only as recipients of prevention messages, the activity gave them an active role in sharing information with neighbours and starting conversations that can continue within families.

This year’s statewide initiative also highlighted opioid safety and safer pain management for older adults. Bringing together youth participation and information for older generations shows how opioid prevention can reach beyond a single age group and become a wider community activity.

Find more from Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (USA, October 2026)