Art Contest To Raise Awareness About Heroin Addiction
NEWARK, N.J. - - The Drug Enforcement Administration-New Jersey Division and the New York/New Jersey High Intensity Drug Trafficking (HIDTA) in conjunction with the Partnership for a Drug Free New Jersey and the Governor’s Council on Alcoholism & Drug Abuse are pleased to announce their sponsorship of a statewide Heroin Addiction Art Contest and Exhibition.
Heroin abuse has been a major problem in New Jersey. In 2013, there were a total of 26,835 admissions to treatment facilities for heroin abuse in New Jersey. Of that total, approximately 30% of admissions were for individuals between18-25, the largest total of any age group. Carl J. Kotowski, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Jersey Division said, “This contest is a great way for New Jersey residents to use their creative talents to spread the word about heroin addiction. Our aim is to raise awareness about this problem and to reduce heroin addiction and overdoses.”
Angelo Valente, Executive Director of the Partnership for a Drug Free New Jersey said, “This exhibit will play a significant role in raising awareness about the toll heroin abuse can have on the individual and on the community.”
This art contest is open to all residents of New Jersey. The winner will receive a grand prize of $500 and statewide recognition. The deadline for submission of the artwork is July 28, 2015. Entry forms can be obtained by going to www.drugfreenj.org/HeroinArtExhibit .
