By: State Rep. Estela Reyes – 9-26
As summer comes to a close and we begin the transition into fall, I have been reflecting on the many events, conversations, and community gatherings that brought us together over the past few months.
Summer is always a busy and exciting time across Lawrence and Methuen, and I am grateful for every opportunity to connect with residents, local organizations, and community leaders, hear directly about the issues that matter most, and see firsthand the incredible work being done throughout our communities.
This year, the end of summer carried particular significance as our communities came together to remember the lives lost to substance use and overdose, while also recognizing those who are working toward recovery.
In Methuen, I joined members of the community for the annual flag placement at the Methuen Police Department honoring those who lost their lives to overdose in 2025. In Lawrence, I also attended the Overdose Awareness and Recovery Flag Raising Ceremony at Campagnone Common.
These ceremonies are important because they remind us that the impact of substance use disorder reaches far beyond any one individual. It affects parents, children, siblings, friends, neighbors, and entire communities. Behind every life lost is a family carrying that loss with them, and behind every person in recovery is a story of strength, perseverance, and hope.
Overdose awareness is also about breaking down stigma. Too often, people struggling with substance use disorder are judged instead of supported, and that stigma can become another barrier to seeking treatment or asking for help. By speaking openly about addiction, recovery, prevention, and treatment, we can create a community where people feel supported rather than ashamed and where families know they are not alone.
Recovery deserves to be recognized and celebrated as well. Recovery is not always a straight path, and it often requires continued support from family members, health professionals, community organizations, and others who dedicate their lives to helping people move forward.
When our communities come together for events like these, we send an important message that recovery is possible and that every person deserves the opportunity to rebuild their life.
That is why I was proud to recently celebrate the $25,000 I secured in the FY26 state budget for the Merrimack Valley Prevention and Substance Abuse Project. At the end of August, we gathered at MVPASAP in Methuen to recognize this investment and the important work the organization continues to do in prevention, education, outreach, and recovery support.
Investments like this are especially important because addressing substance use cannot begin only after a crisis occurs. Prevention, education, early intervention, treatment, and recovery services all play a role in protecting families and saving lives. Organizations working directly in our communities often know firsthand where the greatest needs are and are able to connect residents with resources and support when they need it most.
State funding may be approved in Boston, but its real impact is felt here at home. Supporting local organizations allows us to strengthen prevention efforts, support people in recovery, assist families, and help build healthier and safer communities throughout the Merrimack Valley.
As we recognize Recovery Month, I hope we continue to remember those we have lost, stand with the families who continue to grieve, and celebrate those who are working each day toward recovery. Just as importantly, we must continue supporting the people and organizations on the front lines of this work.
As always, I encourage residents to reach out to my office with questions, concerns, or ideas. It is an honor to continue serving the people of Lawrence and Methuen, and I look forward to another busy fall ahead. ◊