The Allentown Health Bureau has launched a Community Stigma Survey focused on substance use and the stigma surrounding addiction. This initiative seeks to better understand how public attitudes toward drug use affect individuals, families, and communities—and how stigma can be reduced to support more compassionate, evidence-based approaches
May 29, 2025 — The Allentown Health Bureau has launched a Community Stigma Survey focused on substance use and the stigma surrounding addiction. This initiative seeks to better understand how public attitudes toward drug use affect individuals, families, and communities—and how stigma can be reduced to support more compassionate, evidence-based approaches.
“The way we talk about and respond to substance use can significantly impact health outcomes and access to support,” Allentown Health Director David Synnamon. “This survey gives our community a voice in shaping how we move forward as a city—one that values empathy, public health, and real solutions.”
The survey, which focuses on opioids and other illicit substances, is anonymous and allows participants to skip questions they’re not comfortable answering. The results will help guide the City’s public health programming, policies, and education efforts.
This survey effort builds on the Health Bureau’s current work to address the opioid crisis, including the installation of two naloxone pole boxes at high-need locations in the city: 9th & Linden Street (SW corner) and 7th & Chew Street.
These boxes contain naloxone, a life-saving medication that reverses opioid overdoses. The locations were selected based on overdose incident data and are situated in high-traffic areas to provide quicker access to emergency treatment. Each box includes clear instructions for use. This initiative was made possible through a partnership with Lehigh County Drug & Alcohol Services.
“Every effort counts when it comes to saving lives,” Synnamon said. “In this case, whether it’s increasing access to naloxone— or just changing the way we think and talk about addiction, we’re committed to building a healthier, more inclusive city.”
All are encouraged to take the survey at https://bit.ly/AHBStigma.