Submitted by the Orcas Community Resource Center.

September marks National Recovery Month, a time to raise awareness about substance use treatment, mental health, and the ongoing challenges faced by individuals on their journey to recovery. The Orcas Community Resource Center is committed to supporting community members through accessible resources and services aimed at promoting safety and well-being.

In line with its mission, the Resource Center maintains a Harm Reduction Cabinet, stocked with essential tools designed to prevent overdose, reduce harm, and promote sexual health. The cabinet, located at the center, provides free access to:

• Fentanyl test strips, helping users identify the presence of fentanyl in substances and potentially preventing fatal overdoses.

• Condoms to promote safe sexual practices and prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections.

• Naloxone (Narcan), a life-saving medication that can reverse opioid overdoses when administered in time.

The Resource Center has distributed approximately 20 units of naloxone over the past year, and there are still plenty on hand for those in need. These resources are available to all members of the community, no questions asked. By offering these services, the Resource Center actively contributes to reducing the risks associated with substance use and ensures that individuals feel supported and empowered in their recovery efforts.

National Recovery Month serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding, compassion, and community involvement in helping individuals reclaim their lives. Through the Harm Reduction Cabinet, substance abuse treatment referrals, and many other essential programs, the OCRC continues to be a vital lifeline for those in need on Orcas Island.

Learn how to respond to an opioid overdose, how to identify the signs of an opioid overdose, who to call during an overdose, and how to administer Naloxone (Narcan) here: www.nextdistro.org/resources-collection/narcan-training-video-next-distro.