08/20/2026
OCEAN COUNTY PROSECUTOR’S OFFICE ANNOUNCES LAUNCH OF “OCEAN GOES PURPLE” INITIATIVE
Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office - in partnership with the Ocean County Board of Commissioners - will launch Ocean Goes Purple, a countywide initiative designed to raise awareness about substance use disorder, reduce the stigma surrounding addiction, and connect residents with treatment and recovery resources.
The official kickoff for Ocean Goes Purple is scheduled for Monday, August 31, 2026, in recognition of International Overdose Awareness Day. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., there will be a tabling event in front of the Prosecutor’s Office with representation from agencies throughout the county. Also, as part of the launch, County buildings throughout downtown Toms River will be illuminated in purple, and banners will line the courthouse area of Hooper Avenue serving as a visible symbol of hope, remembrance, and support for those affected by substance use disorder.
Throughout the month of September - recognized nationally as Recovery Month - municipalities, schools, businesses, community organizations, and residents are encouraged to display purple ribbons, wear purple, illuminate buildings in purple, and participate in educational and community events designed to inspire hope, reduce stigma, and prevent substance misuse.
The initiative is modeled after the nationally recognized “Talbot Goes Purple” campaign in Talbot County, Maryland, which has demonstrated success in uniting communities through education, prevention, and visible public support for individuals and families affected by addiction.
"Addiction affects individuals and families in every community, regardless of age, background, or circumstance," Prosecutor Billhimer stated. "Ocean Goes Purple represents this County’s commitment to educating the public, reducing the stigma associated with substance abuse disorder, and ensuring that those in need are made aware that help is available. By standing together as one County, we can save lives and strengthen our communities."
“Going purple signifies Ocean County’s commitment to creating a strong network of resources and support for our residents,” the Ocean County Board of Commissioners said in a joint statement. “Recovery from addiction is not linear. By spreading awareness, we hope to ensure a healthier and safer Ocean County for all.”
Ocean Goes Purple will be fully funded through the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office's Operation Helping Hand grant awarded by the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General. As such, the initiative will require no allocation of County taxpayer funds.
Working alongside local law enforcement agencies, educators, healthcare providers, community organizations, and recovery advocates, Ocean Goes Purple will focus on three primary objectives:
• Expanding community education through evidence-based prevention and awareness programs;
• Reducing the stigma surrounding addiction by encouraging compassion, understanding, and treatment; and
• Increasing awareness of and access to existing treatment, recovery, and support services available throughout Ocean County.
The Ocean County Prosecutor's Office will lead the operational and law enforcement components of the initiative while working collaboratively with the Ocean County Board of Commissioners and community partners to ensure a coordinated countywide effort.
"Combating the opioid epidemic requires more than enforcement alone," Prosecutor Billhimer added. "It requires collaboration, education, compassion, and a shared commitment from every corner of our community. Ocean Goes Purple demonstrates that Ocean County stands united in supporting recovery, remembering those we have lost, and providing hope for those still struggling.”
Ocean County Government
