Sacramento, CA – The Sacramento LGBT Community Center is taking a significant step in combating the devastating opioid crisis by unveiling the city’s first naloxone newsstand. This innovative initiative aims to increase access to life-saving overdose reversal medication, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community, which is disproportionately affected by substance abuse and overdose.
A Crisis in Need of Urgent Action
In 2022, Sacramento County experienced a staggering 555 overdose deaths, with opioids contributing to a significant portion. The LGBTQ+ community, often facing unique challenges related to mental health and substance abuse, is particularly vulnerable. By providing free, 24/7 access to naloxone, the Center hopes to save lives and reduce the tragic impact of overdose.
How the Naloxone Newsstand Works
The newsstand, permanently installed outside the Center’s Midtown location in Lavender Heights, offers a convenient and discreet way for community members to obtain naloxone nasal spray. This passive distribution method ensures that anyone in need can access the medication, regardless of the Center’s operating hours.
Beyond the Newsstand: A Comprehensive Approach
The Center’s commitment to addressing the overdose crisis extends beyond the newsstand. Through its Health Services department, the organization offers a range of harm reduction services, including:
- Naloxone distribution
- Fentanyl testing strips
- Condoms
- One-on-one counseling
- Support groups for youth and adults
Additionally, the Center actively works to reduce homelessness, a significant risk factor for overdose, by providing shelter and transitional housing for young adults. The Center’s Advocacy team also advocates for policies that increase access to harm reduction services and address the root causes of addiction.
How to Use Naloxone
Naloxone is a safe and effective medication that can reverse an opioid overdose. To use naloxone nasal spray:
- Recognize the signs of an overdose: pinpoint pupils, blue lips and fingertips, slow or labored breathing, and unresponsiveness.
- Call 911: Emergency medical services should be summoned immediately.
- Administer naloxone: Remove the applicator from the packaging, place the tip in the person’s nostril, and press the plunger.
- Monitor the person: If they remain unresponsive after 2-3 minutes, administer a second dose.
The Sacramento LGBT Community Center invites everyone to visit the naloxone newsstand, take a box of naloxone, and leave messages honoring loved ones lost to overdose. By working together, we can make a difference in the fight against this epidemic.