Free Narcan Available In 4 Repurposed Newsstands In Uptown, Lakeview

The Chicago Department of Public Health has launched a program offering free naloxone, commonly known as Narcan, at four newsstands in Uptown and Lakeview. This initiative, developed in partnership with local community organizations, responds to the area's high incidence of opioid overdoses. Between 2015 and 2020, emergency service calls related to opioids surged from 3,000 to 13,000, prompting the need for increased access to life-saving medication. Health Commissioner Dr. Olusimbo Ige described Narcan as a "lifesaving tool" during a community fair that marked the program's unveiling.

The city plans to assess the impact of the initiative by monitoring usage and trends every few months. Billitteri emphasized that while Narcan can save lives, it is crucial to call 911 after administering it. Community leaders, including Alderman Angela Clay, advocate for carrying Narcan, underscoring its importance in overdose prevention. Previously, the city had introduced Narcan vending machines in public areas, furthering its commitment to harm reduction.