VIDA Launches Free
Narcan & Fentanyl Test Strip Program to
Combat Overdose Crisis
VIDA is extremely proud to launch a critical new initiative aimed at combating the devastating rise in opioid-related deaths across San Diego County. Recent data shows that overdose deaths involving fentanyl have surged, accounting for 88% of opioid-related fatalities in 2021, up from 77% in 2020. The highest number of these deaths were recorded in the Central Region, followed by the East and North Coastal areas. These alarming trends point to an urgent need for immediate, accessible solutions to prevent overdose deaths and empower the community with lifesaving tools.
In response, VIDA is now offering free Narcan (naloxone) and fentanyl test strips to help community members reverse opioid overdoses and detect the presence of fentanyl in substances before use. Naloxone is a fast-acting, FDA-approved medication that can temporarily reverse the effects of opioid overdose, potentially saving lives if administered quickly.
As one VIDA health advocate put it, “Having Narcan on hand is like carrying CPR in your pocket—it's a chance to keep someone alive long enough to get real help.” Fentanyl test strips, meanwhile, provide a simple and effective way to check for the presence of this powerful synthetic opioid—one of the leading contributors to overdose deaths in our region.
These harm reduction supplies will be available at several VIDA community outreach events
These distribution points aim to reach diverse and underserved communities where the need for intervention tools is urgent.
Even if you are not personally affected by opioid use, you can still make a powerful difference by helping spread the word. Share this information with friends, family, or neighbors—especially those who may benefit from access to free Narcan or fentanyl testing kits. Together, we can take actionable steps to reduce harm and save lives in San Diego County.
ABOUT NARCAN
NARCAN® Nasal Spray was designed to rapidly reverse the effects of a life-threatening opioid emergency. It is used to revive someone during an overdose from many prescription pain medications or street drugs such as heroin and is available as an over-the-counter treatment.
Learn More at:
https://narcan.com/
DRUG-RELATED MORTALITY
- From 2017 to 2019 the number of any-drug-related overdose deaths in San Diego County remained stable, followed by a sharp increase from 2019 to 2020. This trend continued through 2021.
MORTALITY BY DRUG
- Opioid-related drug deaths have increased since 2018.
- Overdose deaths attributed to fentanyl were 1.6 times higher in 2021 than in 2020 and accounted for 88% of opioid-related deaths in 2021 compared to 77% in 2020.
- Psychostimulant-related deaths increased 45% from 2020 to 2021.
OPIOID-RELATED MORTALITY IN 2021 BY HHSA REGION OF RESIDENCE
- In 2021, opioid-related overdose deaths are higher in the Central Region, followed by the East and North Coastal Regions.
DOWNLOAD PDF DATA FOR SAN DIEGO COUNTY, YEARS 2017-2021
NARCAN IF IMPLEMENTED IN TIME:
Naloxone is a medication approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) designed to rapidly reverse opioid overdose. It is an opioid antagonist -- meaning that it binds to opioid receptors and can reverse and block the effects of other opioids, such as heroin, morphine, and oxycodone. Administered when a patient is showing signs of opioid overdose, naloxone is a temporary treatment and its effects do not last long. Therefore, it is critical to obtain medical intervention as soon as possible after administering/receiving naloxone.
VIDA is pleased to partner with Stepping Stone to help those challenged by the opioid crisis and may need some treatment or further information.
For nearly 50 years, Stepping Stone has been one of the nation’s only LGBTQ+-specialized addiction recovery nonprofits, committed to saving lives, strengthening families, and building community. Since 1976, we have provided affirming, trauma-informed services for individuals navigating substance use and mental health challenges, with a focus on the unique needs of LGBTQ+ individuals. Our continuum of care includes a 31-bed residential treatment center, outpatient counseling through our “Stepping Out” program, supportive transitions into sober living and independent housing, and long-term alumni recovery services. We also provide HIV education and prevention, gender-affirming care, and wraparound supports such as case management, housing assistance, and connection to medical and mental health care. We proudly welcome clients of all sexual orientations and gender identities, creating a safe, vibrant, and inclusive space for healing and transformation.
Stepping Stone is the nation's leading addiction recovery, mental health and housing nonprofit specializing in LGBTQIA+ care, click here to find out more about their residential inpatient, outpatient and harm reduction resources - they offer Narcan and other resources at their many facilities in North Park, Hillcrest and City Heights.
For additional information, please email at info@vida.community or call (509) 431-4958.