‘We hope to reduce the stigma’, Narcan distribution box installed at municipal building

In efforts to combat the opioid crisis and support the health and safety of the community, Hillsborough has installed a Narcan (naloxone) distribution box at the Hillsborough Township Municipal Building, located at 379 South Branch Road.

The box, installed in the main hallway of the Municipal Building below the AED kit, is the first to be installed, with the intent to expand the program to include boxes at other easily accessible public locations. The Narcan is free of charge and is intended for anyone in need. Narcan is a life-saving medication that can rapidly reverse the effects of an opioid overdose and has been proven to save lives in emergency situations, according to a press release through Hillsborough Township.

Mayor Robert Britting, Jr. emphasized the importance of this initiative.

“Our community is no different from any other community in that it has been deeply affected by the opioid crisis, and it is our responsibility to provide resources that can save lives,” he said.

“By making Narcan readily available and anonymous, we hope to reduce the stigma and empower more people to act in critical moments.”

The installation of these Narcan kits is part of a broader effort by the township to address public health challenges and ensure that all residents have access to necessary resources. The township also plans to offer an educational session on how to use Narcan and information on where to find addiction support services.

“We know that quick access to Narcan can mean the difference between life and death in the event of an overdose,” said Committeewoman Catherine Payne, liaison to the Hillsborough Millstone Municipal Alliance. “We encourage everyone to become familiar with how to use Narcan and to feel confident that this resource is available whenever needed.”

Residents are encouraged to spread the word about the availability of these kits and to take advantage of this critical resource if they or someone they know may be at risk of an opioid overdose.

For more information about Narcan, opioid overdose prevention, or available support services, please visit the Resources and Links page at https://www.hillsborough-nj.org/municipal-alliance-committee-pages/319-resources-and-links on the Hillsborough-Millstone Municipal Alliance website.

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