Boston Prepares for 7th Annual Shatterproof Walk to End Addiction

While the 192 overdose deaths recorded in 2024 signal progress, the crisis remains a persistent public health challenge. Fentanyl continues to drive the epidemic, appearing in 90% of opioid-related fatalities. Shatterproof CEO Pam Jenkins noted that despite these gains, significant gaps in care and pervasive social stigma still prevent thousands of families from accessing the support they need.

Data from the 2024 Massachusetts Addiction Stigma Index highlights the depth of this hurdle: only one-quarter of adults view substance use disorder as a chronic medical condition. Consequently, roughly 60% of individuals struggling with addiction in the state remain without necessary treatment. Funds raised during the October 4 walk will be directed toward local advocacy, policy reform, and the Massachusetts Organization for Addiction Recovery, which retains 75% of the revenue generated by its teams to bolster direct services.