The epidemic of opiate abuse, addiction and overdose deaths rising across the country increasingly impacts the tri-town area. Find out more about it through a four-part community awareness series, co-sponsored by St. Gabriel’s Episcopal Church in Marion and the Healthy Tri-Town Coalition.

All of the events are free to the public. Visit stgabrielsmarion.org or healthytritowncoalition.org for more information. St. Gabriel’s Episcopal Church is located at 124 Front St., Marion. Parking is available.

Learn to Cope

Friday, Jan. 27, 7 p.m. , St. Gabriel’s Episcopal Church

Linda Botelho of Learn to Cope, a local family support network, will share her experience with a loved one who has struggled with addiction. She will share the resources available through Learn to Cope. Coffee and dessert will be provided.

‘Dreamland’ book discussion

Sunday, Feb. 26, 7 p.m., St. Gabriel’s Episcopal Church

There will be a discussion on the bestseller, “Dreamland: The True Tale of America’s Opiate Epidemic” by Sam Quinones. Refreshments will be provided. Copies of “Dreamland” are available for purchase at St Gabriel’s. Call 508-748-1507 for information.

‘Chasing the Dragon’ movie and discussion

Sunday, March 26, 6 p.m., St. Gabriel’s Episcopal Church

There will be a community showing of the 2016 documentary, “Chasing the Dragon,” produced by the FBI. The film features interviews with people struggling with opiate addiction and family members describing the impact on their lives. This film contains some profanity and disturbing material. It is recommended for high school and above.

Who is at risk?

Thursday, April 27, 7 p.m., Old Rochester Regional High School

Dr. Ruth Potee, an expert in the physiology of addiction, will speak at ORR to spark a community dialogue on addiction and to help residents understand who is at risk, how to prevent and how to treat addiction. This talk will be followed by refreshments and discussion with Dr. Potee and local public health professionals.