OCALA, FL (January 08, 2018) – In a continuing effort to combat the growing opioid epidemic, The Centers will be hosting a community support forum in Marion and Citrus counties, for those suffering from opioid addiction and for their family members. These free forums will focus on providing information about the life-saving drug, Narcan.
According to www.narcan.com, “NARCAN® (naloxone HCl) Nasal Spray is the first and only FDA-approved nasal form of naloxone for the emergency treatment of a known or suspected opioid overdose. NARCAN® Nasal Spray counteracts the life-threatening effects of opioid overdose. Since most accidental overdoses occur in a home setting, it was developed for first responders, as well as family, friends, and caregivers.”
For Marion County residents, the forum will be held Saturday, January 13 at 11:00 a.m. at The Centers located in Building 2 at 5664 SW 60th Avenue, Ocala. For Citrus County residents, the forum will be held Saturday, January 20 at 11:00 a.m. at The Centers located in Building 2 at 3238 South Lecanto Hwy, Lecanto.
During this forum, attendees will be trained on how to use Narcan, in case of an overdose. Attendees will also have an opportunity to obtain a free dose of the medication to take home.
In October 2017, The Centers donated 200 doses of Narcan to the Ocala Police Department, since many officers are the first responders during an overdose emergency situation.
Steve Blank, Vice President of Outpatient Services said, “The Centers recognizes an essential part of recovery and saving lives is to offer many opportunities for community and family members to collaborate with their loved ones’ treatment. These forums are a way to do just that.”
The Centers, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, has been serving Marion and Citrus Counties since 1972. With five locations, approximately 450 employees, and 17,000 clients, The Centers provides child welfare services, and comprehensive mental health and substance abuse treatment services, including a unique program for mothers battling opioid addiction. Committed to offering quality and affordable care for all in need, The Centers is rebuilding hope and significantly impacting the lives of children and adults in the community each year. For more information, visit www.thecenters.us.