During the past year, Cortland County has experienced an alarming increase in the opioid overdose rate.  An opioid overdose can happen to anyone consuming opioids for medical or recreational use. However, the pandemic and resulting social isolation have contributed to additional challenges for those struggling with addiction.

To address these concerns and save lives, Family & Children’s Counseling Services (FCCS), CACTC and other community agencies are working together to promote naloxone training and distribution.  Naloxone (Narcan) nasal spray is a lifesaving medication that reverses an opioid overdose in a matter of minutes. Anyone can be trained to administer Narcan and it is extremely simple to use.

Even if you are not personally affected by opioid use, it is always safe to have a Narcan kit in case a neighbor, bystander, or family member is in need. You can save a life.

We have two Pop-Up events coming up soon:

Wednesday, May 5. Stop over anytime between 5:30-7PM, outside of Marathon Health Center, Family Health Network, 20 E Main St., Marathon

Friday, May 21. Stop over anytime between 12:30-2:30pm, outside of Access to Independence, 26 N Main St., Cortland

Anyone who participates in a brief 5-10 minute training can leave with their own free Narcan kit. Training activities take place outside with limited person-to-person interaction and COVID-19 safety precautions in place.

Narcan training activities are provided by FCCS staff assigned to their Center of Treatment Innovation (COTI) Program.  The COTI Program is a mobile outreach service offering peer support, harm reduction, and treatment for individuals who are struggling with a substance use disorder.

On top of this, free fentanyl test strips provided by FCCS will be available for those who come to the event and participate in training.

For more information about the COTI Program or to access Narcan training or kits, contact the FCCS Main Office at (607) 753-0234 or the COTI Program Director cell at (607)749-0014 during normal business hours. You can also reach COTI staff by email at COTI@fcscortland.org.

Healing Cortland is a community-wide initiative to reduce overdose deaths in Cortland County. Healing Cortland, a project of CACTC, is working to increase and coordinate opioid overdose education and Narcan distribution in Cortland County to ensure that all residents have access. To learn more about Healing Cortland, visit healingcortland.org.