FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — On Aug. 31, the government buildings in Cumming will join buildings and landmarks across the nation in lighting up purple in recognition of Overdose Awareness Day.

According to the Georgia Department of Public Health, all drug overdose deaths in Georgia increased by 55.9 percent from 2019 to 2021 with Fentanyl-related overdose deaths increasing in Georgia by 106.2% between May 1, 2020 and April 30, 2021.

During their Aug. 18 meeting, the Forsyth County Board of Commissioners proclaimed Wednesday, Aug. 31, as Overdose Awareness Day in Forsyth County and urged all residents to learn more about prescription drug overdose prevention as well as how to aid and support those that are affected by it.