Addabbo Hosts Naloxone Training to Prevent Opioid Overdose Fatalities

Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. will host a Naloxone training and certification event in partnership with J-CAP (part of the Acacia Network) and the Richmond Hill South Ozone Park Lions Club at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, at the Akal Care Social Adult Day Care, located at 120-15 Rockaway Boulevard in South Ozone Park. 

Participants will learn how to recognize the signs of an opioid overdose and how to respond using Naloxone, also known by the brand name Narcan. Upon completion of the course, participants will receive a certificate and a free Naloxone kit. This is the latest in a series of Naloxone trainings that Addabbo has conducted throughout the district in order to educate the public. 

“These events are so important because they could help people save a life,” Addabbo said. “In case of an overdose, you only have minutes to react and respond, and Naloxone is essential to being the one before 911.  I would like to thank J-CAP and the Acacia Network for their continued support in facilitating these trainings. I also appreciate sponsoring the event with the Richmond Hill South Ozone Park Lions Club.”

In 2022, 3026 New Yorkers died of a drug overdose, a 12% increase from 2021 (2,696 deaths), and the highest number since reporting began in 2000, according to a data brief by the NYC Department of Health.

Opioids include OxyContin, fentanyl, methadone, and Vicodin. Naloxone can also reverse overdoses from street drugs like heroin. Naloxone is an antidote for opioid overdoses, and it can temporarily reverse the effects of opioids by binding to the same receptors in the brain. The nasal spray form of naloxone is a convenient and easy-to-use method of administration.

Space is limited. Walk-ins are welcome. First come, first served. For more information, call Senator Addabbo’s Office at 718-738-1111.