Monterey, CA, August 22, 2023 – Community Human Services will give out over 400 FREE Narcan kits at the West End Celebration on August 26/27 in Sand City. Narcan, or Naloxone hydrochloride nasal spray, is a life-saving medication that reverses an opioid overdose, including heroin, fentanyl, and prescription opioid medications.
Community Human Services Board President and Sand City Mayor Mary Ann Carbone recently had the opportunity to use a Narcan kit she received from Community Human Services. Mary Ann and her family were attending a birthday party at a hotel when they noticed a woman in distress. Mary Ann said, “She was just sitting there nodding out.” Mary Ann and her daughter were able to revive the woman and may have saved her life. “An overdose can happen anywhere. Narcan is safe and easy to use, keep a Narcan kit in your car, and you may save a life,” states Community Human Services Chief Executive Officer Robin McCrae.
In 2018, Monterey County had the second-lowest opioid-related death rate of any county in California. Fatal overdoses from opioids have increased eightfold since 2018, with 65 opioid-related deaths in 2020 and 2021, prompting the medical community, community-based organizations, and families to step up their efforts in battling the opioid crisis and ask the community for help. CHS is answering the call with free Narcan kits at the West End Celebration, August 26/27, in Sand City and free Narcan kits ANYTIME at Community Human Services Outpatient Treatment Centers in Salinas and Monterey.
Many opioid-related deaths in recent years have been linked to counterfeit pills containing fentanyl, made to look like prescription medications. Fentanyl is a powerful opioid, 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine.
“Opioid addiction can be extremely difficult to overcome. But medication-assisted treatment can help. Recovery happens. Miracles happen. Medication-assisted treatment works,” said McCrae. CHS operates four drug treatment programs that address opioid dependence – Genesis House, Off Main Clinic, and two Outpatient Drug Treatment Centers.
Community Human Services is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit Joint Powers Agency dedicated to providing high-quality mental health, substance abuse, and homeless services to Monterey County residents to help them reach their full potential. For more information on CHS’ services, visit chservices.org or call 831-658-3811.
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