Greenville Welcomes a New Naloxone Vending Box to Combat Overdose Deaths
In an inspiring move towards harm reduction, Greenville has recently welcomed a much-needed addition to its community. A low-barrier naloxone vending box has been installed at the AID Upstate facility, designed to help combat the ongoing challenges of opioid overdoses. This innovative initiative is spearheaded by Challenges Inc., South Carolina’s largest harm reduction nonprofit.
What’s Inside the Box?
Imagine a bright white newspaper box, adorned with a striking red cross and a catchy slogan that reads, “Keep Calm and Carry Narcan.” While it may resemble your typical newsstand, this box is filled with doses of naloxone, commonly known by its brand name Narcan. The best part? Patients visiting the AID Upstate center for HIV treatment can grab the life-saving spray for free, with no questions asked.
Removing Barriers
Marc Burrows, the founder of Challenges Inc., emphasizes that this initiative goes beyond mere convenience; it seeks to dismantle the barriers of stigma and cost that often deter individuals from accessing naloxone. “This is about expanding access to free, low-barrier naloxone, and that’s what this box is for,” Burrows explained. Indeed, the need for such resources is critical, especially considering that naloxone can cost around $60 at pharmacies.
A Growing Mission
Challenges Inc. launched this initiative on September 26, coinciding with the annual Save a Life Day initiated by West Virginia’s SOAR WV. With harm reduction practices becoming increasingly recognized as effective strategies to reduce overdose deaths, Challenges Inc. has steadily gained traction since Burrows began the nonprofit in 2017. What started as a one-person needle exchange operating from the back of his car has now transformed into a thriving nonprofit organization collaborating with key partners, such as the Phoenix Center.
The nonprofit recently received over $200,000 from Greenville County’s settlement with opioid manufacturers and distributors, allowing it to further its mission. Burrows is optimistic about opening a dedicated brick-and-mortar location in Greenville soon.
Community Impact
Listening closely to the needs of the community, Maurice Adair, the director of prevention services at AID Upstate, shared insights about the high demand for naloxone. Previously, Adair would place boxes of naloxone at the front desk, but they were so popular that he often found them empty. “Every time I come out, they’re all gone,” he said, highlighting the urgent need for accessibility. The vending box will enable greater access to this essential drug for those in the community who may be struggling or at risk.
A Life-Saving Resource
Adair also reflected on the pressing realities they face daily. “Almost once a week, there’s someone we don’t see anymore because they OD’ed,” he lamented. The introduction of the naloxone vending box represents hope, allowing individuals to come in and grab the life-saving spray without any obstacles.
Looking Ahead
As Greenville continues to confront the opioid crisis, the installation of the naloxone vending box serves as a beacon of hope and a testament to the community’s resilience. By making naloxone easily accessible, organizations like Challenges Inc. and AID Upstate are working tirelessly to save lives and foster a safer environment for everyone.
Stay tuned for more updates on this pressing issue, and remember that help is always within reach for those in need.
