RUMFORD — More than 100 people participated Saturday afternoon in a rally to draw attention to the challenges of those suffering from substance abuse and to bring hope for recovery.

A crowd walked through the streets of town shouting “recovery is possible” and holding signs indicating help is available.

Glenn Gordon, recovery coach with Oxford County Mental Health Services, said 36 people died of drug overdoses in the county last year. The River Valley area was affected particularly hard in the fall and many families in the community were devastated by the loss of loved ones.

“Many community members asked what could be done to help and they responded by supporting the families affected,” Gordon said. “A group of people in recovery, local agencies and local officials came together to have an open discussion about the impact of substance use and the challenges for those suffering, and their families and friends. They made plans for several events to address substance use in our community.”

The rally ended with people sharing their stories of recovery.

A barbecue was held at the Larry Labonte Recovery Center at 412 Waldo St.

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