Overdose Prevention Resources

by | Apr 27, 2023 | All Categories, CMHW Blog, HHH Blog, Planning, Stigma Reduction, Stigma Reduction, Substance Use, Substance Use

Narcan & Fentanyl Test Strips Can Save Lives

The Community Mental Health and Wellness Coalition works with many partners to help reduce opioid overdoses in our community.

Calling for help during an overdose, carrying Narcan, and practicing other harm reduction strategies can save lives.  Check out these resources for free overdose prevention training and Narcan:

  • The Blue Ridge Health District (BRHD) offers brief overdose reversal training and free Narcan and fentanyl test strips at drive-through events. In addition to receiving free Narcan, community members can pick up fentanyl test trips, rapid in-home HIV test kits, condoms, lube, and other health-related supplies at no cost.  Drive-thru events happen from 3-4PM in Charlottesville, Fluvanna, Greene, Louisa, and Nelson on the following dates each month.
  • Region Ten provides free in-person Rapid REVIVE 5-10 minute training, and virtual REVIVE Lay Rescuer overdose reversal prevention training the 2nd Wednesday of each month from 12:30-1:30PM, or by request.  Participants learn how to respond to an opioid overdose and administer Narcan.  They will receive a certificate of completion which can be used to access free Narcan at Region Ten offices in Charlottesville, Fluvanna, Greene, Louisa, and Nelson Counties.  Learn more here.
  • On Our Own of Charlottesville provides Rapid REVIVE opioid overdose reversal training and free Narcan in the community. They also help people connect with treatment and recovery services. Contact Jenni Kitchen at (540) 245-0682 or jenni@onourowncville.org to request training or Narcan.
  • Charlottesville-Albemarle Rescue Squad (CARS) CARES program provides overdose reversal training and free Narcan.  They also provide a number of other health and safety education activities at community events.
  • Charlottesville Area Harm Reduction provides free naloxone, fentanyl test strips, and sterile syringes.  They can be contacted at (434) 218-0228 to arrange delivery.

Opioid Treatment Is Available and Effective

Medication assisted treatment for opioid addiction works, and there are many low-cost providers in our community that can help, even for people who are uninsured.MAT providers in the community who accept Medicaid include:

Region Ten provides linkage to free MAT service for individuals in the community who are uninsured, residential services and services for pregnant & parenting women, for those who qualify.  Call them at:

  • Charlottesville/Albemarle:  434-970-2183 or 434-972-1829
  • Fluvanna: 434-589-8276
  • Greene: 434-481-3890
  • Louisa: 540-967-2880
  • Nelson: 434-263-4889