The first gathering of COPE (Community Offering Prevention & Education) is Wednesday, March 9 at 6 p.m.

The panel discussion will bring together town officials, the police department, the school department and others.

The discussion will focus on substance use, abuse, addiction and opiates. The meeting will take place at the Dartmouth Middle school located at 366 Slocum Road.

The event is open to the public. Attendees will have an opportunity to discuss concerns, ask questions, listen, speak with others or provide information that will allow the panel to identify Dartmouth’s concerns.