Today, families across Sacramento are coming together on National Fentanyl Awareness Day to share their heartbreaking stories. The aim? To raise awareness about the devastating impact of fentanyl, a drug that has claimed far too many lives. In a powerful display, a billboard near Highway 99 features the photos of 28 victims alongside the stark message,“Fentanyl Kills,” a reminder of the realities many families face each day.
Sacramento County officials point to a significant drop in fentanyl-related deaths, citing a 30% decrease in 2025, thanks to ongoing education and outreach efforts. However, families argue there’s still much work to be done, emphasizing the importance of prevention programs and support services. There’s no denying that while progress is evident, the battle against fentanyl continues, demanding a community effort to help save lives.
Looking ahead, the county is hosting the Fentanyl and Beyond: A Community Response Summit on May 12, which will offer education and resources for those affected by substance use issues. In fostering awareness, these families are not just sharing their grief—they’re igniting a fight for change that is long overdue.
About the Author
Andrew Johnson
Andrew Johnson is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.
