Locals come together for Overdose Awareness Memorial Walk in Delco

CRUM LYNNE, Pa. (WPVI) -- Thousands of people gathered Saturday morning to bring attention to the heroin epidemic in Delaware County.

They all participated in the Overdose Awareness Memorial Walk at the Eddystone Lighthouse Hall in Crum Lynne.

Some wore shirts honoring loved ones, and others celebrated overcoming their own addictions.

Upper Darby Police Superintendent Michael Chitwood says he didn't expect such a high turnout.

"I'm blown away by 3,000-plus people here, and everybody is here because of the addiction problem that we face day in and day out in our different communities," said Chitwood.

There was no registration fee for the walk.

Instead, people were asked to bring donations of toiletries, bed linens and small household goods.

Everything collected is being given to Myra's Place Recovery Home for Women in Glenolden.