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/groups, including Healing Hearts Collaborative and the Southern Tier AIDS Program (STAP) 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 three Narcan Pop-Up events coming up soon:

• June 12 (Sat), 11:30am-1pm, Greek Peak Mountain Resort, 2000 NY-392, Cortland
• June 14 (Mon) 5-8:00pm, Downtown Pocket Park between 10-16 Main St., Cortland – part of a Voter Registration Event co-sponsored with the Elks Club
• July 13 (Tues), 10-11:30am, Chenango-Cortland Rural Services, 2704 Lower Cincinnatus Rd, Cincinnatus

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. Free fentanyl test strips are also available at events and through FCCS. For other information on where to access Narcan, visit healingcortland.org/narcan.

The COTI Program

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. 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

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.