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Shatterproof Walk to End Addiction Returns to D.C. as Community Rallies Around Recovery and Hope

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BC Barry's is listed as a national sponsor for the Shatterproof Walk to End Addiction, indicating a corporate social responsibility initiative rather than a direct financial performance indicator. HEI HEI Hotels + Resorts is listed as a national sponsor for the Shatterproof Walk to End Addiction, indicating a corporate social responsibility initiative rather than a direct financial performance indicator. HLT Hilton Hotels & Resorts is listed as a Gold Sponsor for the Shatterproof Walk to End Addiction, indicating a corporate social responsibility initiative rather than a direct financial performance indicator.

Shatterproof Walk to End Addiction Returns to D.C. as Community Rallies Around Recovery and Hope 8th Annual Event Honors Those Lost, Celebrates Recovery, and Calls for Evidence-Based Care

WASHINGTON, Aug. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- As overdose deaths and hospitalizations decline in Washington, D.C., substance use disorder remains a major public health issue affecting individuals and families across the District. On Saturday, October 17, hundreds of people from across the D.C. area will gather at The Wharf for the 8th Annual Shatterproof Walk to End Addiction, a powerful community event that brings together families, friends, advocates, healthcare leaders, and people in recovery to honor loved ones, celebrate recovery, and take action to end the addiction crisis.

The Walk is one of six events taking place across the country as part of Shatterproof's national effort to transform how addiction is prevented, treated, and understood in America.

Although drug overdose deaths in Washington, D.C. decreased by 31% in 2024, 446 people still lost their lives to overdose. Non-fatal drug overdose hospitalizations also declined, but 538 Washington, D.C. residents were hospitalized in 2024. Most overdose deaths and non-fatal hospitalizations were opioid-related, with fentanyl continuing to drive opioid-related deaths.

"Progress is possible, but too many families are still struggling to find the care and support they need," said Pam Jenkins, CEO of Shatterproof. "The Walk brings communities together to honor those we've lost, celebrate recovery, and remind every person affected by addiction that they are not alone. Together, we can build a future where everyone has access to quality, evidence-based care."

Why It Matters

Despite encouraging progress, addiction continues to affect families across the D.C. area, and stigma remains a major barrier to care. About 1 in 4 people in Washington, D.C. are affected by substance use disorder—higher than the national average—and about 8 in 10 people with SUD still do not receive the care they need.

Funds raised through the Walk support Shatterproof's work to improve addiction treatment, reduce stigma, advocate for better public policy, and provide families with trusted resources. National Sponsors include: Braeburn, Barry's, and HEI Hotels + Resorts. Gold Sponsor: Hilton Hotels & Resorts.

Event Details

Date: Saturday, October 17, 2026

Location:

The Wharf

101 District Square SW

Washington, DC 20024

Event Schedule

Program Highlights

Visuals & Interview Opportunities

Visuals

Interviews Available

Media Logistics

ABOUT SHATTERPROOF

Shatterproof is a national nonprofit transforming how addiction is prevented, treated, and understood in America. We work to stop substance use before it starts, close the treatment gap, and ensure people can find and trust high-quality, evidence-based care. By advancing policy, improving healthcare systems, reducing stigma, and supporting families, we're building a future where more people get the help they need and addiction no longer defines or ends a life.

Learn more at www.Shatterproof.org. Follow Shatterproof on Facebook, X, and YouTube:@ShatterproofHQ and on Instagram:@WeAreShatterproof.

Sources: Sources

SOURCE Shatterproof