The Joplin Area Coalition will host a “Prescription Misuse & Fentanyl Awareness Town Hall and Resource Fair” from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Thursday, May 4 at the Harry M. Cornell Arts & Entertainment Complex in Joplin. The event will feature a panel of experts, including representatives from Eagle 6 Training, Joplin Police Department, Access Family Care, Preferred Family Healthcare, and others. 

In 2022, the DEA seized over 57.9 million fentanyl-laced fake pills and more than 13,400 pounds of fentanyl powder. The 2022 seizures are equivalent to more than 400 million lethal doses of fentanyl. The 2023 fentanyl seizures represent nearly 78.1 million deadly doses. 

Recognizing this growing problem, our coalition is sounding the alarm. The community is invited to learn more about what opioid and fentanyl overdose rates look like in Jasper County. During this event, community partners will share resources and information for addiction, Naloxone, and prevention education. This event is free and open to the public.