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Get Free Naloxone

Under the direction of Dr. Kathleen Burke, The Office of Substance Use Initiatives is committed to increasing the prevention, harm reduction and recovery services for citizens of Will County affected by the opioid epidemic.

Services Offered

Opioid overdose continues to be a major public health issue in the United States. It has contributed significantly to accidental deaths among those who use or misuse opioids.

Narcan Distribution Program

Narcan (Naloxone) is a medication designed to rapidly reverse an overdose. Narcan is available to all individuals and agencies in Will County. Overdose prevention and response training is offered upon request.

To obtain naloxone or schedule training email sui@willcountyhealth.org

“Got Naloxone” Program

GOT NALOXONE is a special rapid response program funded by the Illinois Department of Human Services/SUPR. A team of individuals in long-term recovery distribute naloxone throughout the Will County community. Our partnerships in this venture have grown to include vaccination outreach, our local food banks, motels, health clubs, and homeless encampments. Our team can be found at concerts, farmers markets, car shows and other special events throughout the year. Besides naloxone materials are distributed that identify locations for treatment, peer support, and naloxone. Peer support helps people become and stay engaged in the recovery process and reduce the likelihood of relapse.

GOT NALOXONE serves as an example on how to reach active users, their families and expand into diverse and under resourced neighborhoods in nontraditional ways. We developed a Rapid Response Naloxone Program to address high risk time periods and locations for people with an opioid use disorder (OUD). People with mental health and substance use disorders often face barriers in attempts to seek treatment. Providing access to naloxone and recovery assistance are critical to saving lives. This program has been well received by the community and works to reduce the stigma associated with substance use.

Naloxone Distribution Boxes in Will County

Will County Health Department maintains 10 Naloxone distribution boxes throughout the Will County. The distribution boxes were donated by Saved My Life, an Illinois non-profit organized as a conduit to provide access to free Naloxone in public spaces and business throughout Illinois. The distribution boxes are self-serve and offer free Naloxone. Will County’s 10 distribution boxes can be found at the following locations.

  • Will County Health Department (Main Office) (501 Ella Ave. – Joliet)
  • Will County Community Health Center (1106 Neal Ave – Joliet)
  • Will County Health Department Northern Branch (323 Quadrangle Drive – Bolingbrook)
  • Will County Court House (100 W. Jefferson St – Joliet)
  • Will County Office Building (302 N. Chicago St. – Joliet)
  • Veterans Assistance Commission of Will County (2400 Glenwood Ave. – Suite 110 – Joliet)
  • White Oak Libraries:
    – Crest Hill Branch (20670 City Center Blvd)
    – Lockport Branch (121 E. 8th St.)
    – Romeoville Branch (201 W. Normantown Rd.)

Naloxone Training

The Office of Substance Use Initiatives offers naloxone training free of charge to the Will County Community. Training can be done in person or virtually. The 45-minute class covers legal liabilities, substance use disorders, risk factors for an overdose, what an overdose looks like and response to an overdose. To learn more information or to schedule naloxone training, email sui@willcountyhealth.org

Training regarding other substance use issues is available upon request.

Naloxone Plus Safe Passage Program

Following an emergency response to an overdose in partnership with local police and fire departments, a peer in recovery from the “Got Naloxone” program reaches out to the individual within 24 hours. The peer responder provides support, Narcan and a helping hand to services if requested.

Safe Passage Rent Assistance Program

Scholarship dollars are available upon request to assist individuals entering a recovery home with rent. Specific criteria are established to qualify for the program and receive funding.

Naloxone

What Is Naloxone?

Naloxone is an easy-to-use, life-saving medication.

It can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose when delivered in a timely manner. Naloxone works by preventing opioids from attaching to the brain. Naloxone can be administered by injection or sprayed into the nose. It can begin working within minutes to restore breathing, consciousness, and save a life.

To Obtain Naloxone or Schedule Training Email

sui@willcountyhealth.org