Mankato to Host 4th Annual Fentanyl Poisoning and Overdose Awareness Day
The community will gather this Sunday, August 24, for the 4th Annual Fentanyl Poisoning and Substance Overdose Awareness and Education Day at Erlandson Park in Mankato. The event runs from noon to 3 p.m. and will feature speakers, informational resources, and opportunities for families to connect in remembrance and support.
The program begins at 12:45 p.m. with opening remarks from Kim Gustavson, mother of Travis Gustavson, who passed away at age 21 and whose memory inspired the event. Mayor Najwa Massad will follow with a proclamation, before a series of speakers share their stories and expertise, including parents impacted by fentanyl, representatives from law enforcement and recovery services, and community leaders. Among those scheduled are members of the Mankato Police Department, the DEA, and the Minnesota River Valley Drug Task Force.
In addition to the speaker lineup, attendees can explore informational tables, view 11 Facing Fentanyl banners, and visit the Bright Star Memorial. Pending confirmation, McGruff the Crime Dog and local drug dogs may also make an appearance. A free walking taco lunch and bottled water will be available thanks to support from local businesses. The event is free and open to the public, with city and county officials expected to attend. Organizers say the day serves as both an educational opportunity and a way to honor lives lost to fentanyl and substance overdose.
