First Lady of Virginia visits Graham Middle School for ‘It Takes One’ Initiative

TAZEWELL, VA (WVNS) – Suzanne Youngkin went back to middle school to share her testimony and stance against fentanyl poisoning and overdose deaths. Virginia is one of two states leading the nation in the overall reduction of fentanyl death rates

Speaking with the youth and ingraining healthy choices is something Youngkin said she takes pride in.

“The tip of the spear in our nation is making sure that we’re mobilizing a collective, holistic approach to reducing overdose deaths. That includes law enforcement, bipartisan legislation, health initiatives and education,” said Lady Youngkin.

‘It Only Takes One’ is used to spread the message against drug use and to empower community voices.

The Youngkin administration has also committed $1.4 billion in spending to the Right Help, Right Now initiative to strengthen behavioral health services all across Virginia.

Fentanyl remains the leading cause of drug-related deaths in the commonwealth. The student leaders, along with Youngkin and Senator Hackworth, signed a banner as well as took an oath against drug use.

Senator Travis Hackworth was also in attendance and said he is grateful the Youngkin family visits his neck of the woods so often.

“The saying is that the Commonwealth ends in Roanoke. That’s not true with this administration. Governor Youngkin and first lady Suzanne have been to southwest Virginia more than any other governor and first lady that I know of,” said Senator Hackworth.

The First Lady also visited Bluefield University to share the same message with college students.