Free Substance Use Summit Coming to Rochester April 18

Families in western New York grappling with substance use will have access to free education, support, and resources later this month. Monroe County, the City of Rochester, and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration's New York Division are co-hosting a Substance Use Family Summit on Saturday, April 18, at East High School.

The event, scheduled from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 1801 E. Main Street, brings together substance use professionals, parents with lived experience, and peers in recovery. Sessions will cover current drug trends, overdose prevention strategies, grief and loss support, and stories of hope from those who have navigated the recovery journey.

"Families across Monroe County are navigating the challenges of substance use every day, and they deserve clear information and support they can trust," said County Executive Adam Bello in announcing the summit. "This summit connects people to real resources, practical guidance, and a network of care."

The partnership with the DEA New York Division signals the ongoing federal focus on fentanyl-related deaths, which remain the leading cause of overdose fatalities nationwide. According to recent data, synthetic opioids—primarily fentanyl—continue to drive the majority of overdose deaths in New York State, making education and prevention efforts particularly urgent.

Rochester Mayor Malik Evans emphasized the community aspect of the gathering. "Hope and opportunity are a powerful combination. I encourage all families navigating substance abuse to join us for this free summit to receive resources and support from partners at every level of our government and community."

The summit is also supported by Facing Fentanyl, a national organization dedicated to raising awareness about the dangers of illicit fentanyl and supporting affected families.

While admission is free, organizers are requesting advance registration by Wednesday, April 15, through the City of Rochester website. Registered participants will receive lunch and a summit t-shirt. Those with questions can contact Monroe County Addiction Services at (585) 753-5300.

This type of community-focused event reflects a broader shift in how public health officials approach the addiction crisis—moving beyond law enforcement alone to emphasize harm reduction, family support, and connection to treatment services. For families who have lost loved ones to overdose or are currently supporting someone in active use, the summit offers a rare opportunity to access multiple resources in one location while connecting with others who understand the complex emotional terrain of addiction.

The April 18 event represents one of several ongoing initiatives in Monroe County aimed at addressing substance use through a combination of outreach, education, and treatment access. The county's Addiction Services department operates Project IMPACT, which conducts street-level outreach in areas with high overdose rates and maintains naloxone boxes throughout the community.