CASA-Trinity Releases The Silence Inside on Black Balloon Day - A Film That Lets Teens Speak for Themselves

New 11-minute film uses the voices of real young people to open honest conversations about loneliness, substance use, and the power of connection

ELMIRA, NY (03/04/2026) (readMedia)-- On Black Balloon Day, March 6, an annual day of remembrance honoring those who have died from drug overdose and raising awareness about substance use disorder, CASA-Trinity releases "The Silence Inside," an 11-minute film built around the unfiltered voices of teens navigating loneliness, substance use and the quiet moments where difficult thoughts grow louder.

Rather than lecturing, the film follows high school narrators through experiences many young people recognize, alongside a physician, a young adult in recovery, and parents who have faced profound loss. It then shifts toward hope - connection, trusted relationships, and mental health resources - affirming that young people are not alone in what they're carrying.

"Kids in our community are hurting. They're lonely, they're overwhelmed, and some of them are turning to substances just to get through the day."

A free community screening will be held at 4:15 p.m. March 6 at the AIR Center, 456 E. Church St., Elmira. Food and refreshments will be provided.

The film is also available for classrooms, youth groups, and community organizations at https://youtu.be/j7ZM3hCYmwM

Matthew Moore, producer of The Silence Inside, is available for media interviews and community presentations. Contact him at mmoore@casa-trinity.org.

About CASA-Trinity, Inc.

Established in 1974 as Livingston County Council on Alcohol and Substance Abuse, CASA-Trinity. Inc. is a nonprofit organization headquartered in Geneseo, NY. The organization employs more than 250 people and serves individuals and families struggling with substance use disorders and mental health needs in communities throughout Livingston, Cattaraugus, Chemung, Steuben, and Tioga counties in NY. CASA-Trinity offers Prevention, Treatment and Recovery programs from Residential, Inpatient, Clinic and Youth Clubhouse facilities in Geneseo, Dansville, Hornell, Elmira, Olean and Owego, New York.