CHD partnership with Hampden DA, area hospitals provides 1,120 Naloxone doses to first responders

Two years ago, CHD embarked on a lifesaving initiative led by Hampden County District Attorney Anthony Gulluni with local partners Baystate Health and Trinity Health of New England to provide Naloxone, known commonly as NARCAN Nasal Spray, to local first responders so they have it on hand as they serve the community.

Along with CHD, Baystate and Trinity Health’s initial combined commitment of $70,000 toward the initiative, it has since grown to over $125,000 due to an additional $55,000 in funding by the Hampden County District Attorney’s Office. Since October 2018, the initiative has supplied 1,120 doses to help local police and fire departments address opioid overdoses in communities across Hampden County.

“We recognize the essential, lifesaving role that first responders play in supporting our community’s long-term resilience and recovery from the worst of the opioid crisis,” said Jim Goodwin, president and CEO of CHD. “This investment is helping many parents, spouses, partners, daughters and sons gain an opportunity to embark on long-term recovery, and keep intact many families who otherwise might have experienced a tragic loss.”

Used to reverse an overdose in an emergency situation, Naloxone/NARCAN can be a lifesaving tool in the hands of those who are called upon respond to incidents involving overdose. It’s also designed for ease-of-use in a community setting and was developed not only for first responders but also family, friends, and caregivers, with no specialized medical training required.

Local participating police and fire departments include:

  • Agawam Police Department
  • Chicopee Police and Fire Departments
  • Holyoke Police and Fire Departments
  • Longmeadow Police and Fire Department
  • Ludlow Police Department
  • Springfield Police and Fire Departments
  • Westfield Fire Department
  • West Springfield Police Department
  • Wilbraham Police Department

“This investment is helping many parents, spouses, partners, daughters and sons gain an opportunity to embark on long-term recovery, and keep intact many families who otherwise might have experienced a tragic loss.”

—

Jim Goodwin, President and CEO, CHD

 

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