Narcan Vending Machines Coming To Morris As Officials Aim To Reduce Drug Deaths

MORRIS COUNTY, NJ — Officials are expanding a push to reduce drug overdose deaths in Morris County, and support residents who are struggling with substance use disorders.

The county Sheriff's Office, Prosecutor’s Office and Board of County Commissioners are working with Rockaway-based Prevention is Key (PIK) to develop wider harm reduction strategies in Morris, the county said. This nonprofit, which was recognized by the New Jersey Department of Health as a Registered Harm Reduction Center, focuses on addiction and recovery while promoting the health and well-being of the community.

Harm reduction includes going directly to communities where drug and alcohol use is prevalent, and working with people to provide resources and potentially life-saving support.

Officials said this outreach method "does not attempt to minimize or ignore the real and tragic harm and danger that can be associated with illicit drug use, but instead provides compassion and understanding to individuals who are trying to find their pathway to recovery."

The county will install three vending machines equipped with Narcan (a brand name for naloxone), officials said — this drug can revive someone who has overdosed on opioids.

One of the machines will be placed at the Morris County Correctional Facility by Aug. 1, and Sheriff James Gannon noted that people released from incarceration are at a higher risk for drug overdoses and deaths.

The Sheriff's Office has launched several other programs that address addiction, and assist individuals and families struggling with substance use and mental health disorders — including the mobile Hope One recovery access vehicle, the Hope Hub, and Community Connections (which helps reintegrate people into the community).

The county has not yet responded to Patch's inquiry about where people could access the other two "strategically placed" vending machines.

Also, counselors will be provided with special kits that contain educational materials, instructions on how to access help and hotlines, Narcan and Narcan training guides, first aid supplies, personal hygiene products and much more.

"These efforts are designed to combat overdoses and address substance use disorders by providing people who use drugs with life-saving tools, counseling and educational information to positively refocus their lives," county officials added.

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