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Mesa County, Colorado, has recently taken a significant step in combating the opioid crisis with the launch of a network of free naloxone kiosks. These kiosks, stocked with naloxone — an opioid overdose antidote — are now available to the public at no cost. Situated across Grand Junction and Clifton, the kiosks aim to provide greater accessibility to life-saving medication for anyone in need, regardless of their location or financial situation.
Naloxone, commonly known by the brand name Narcan, can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, and it's easy accessibility can save lives in emergencies. The six operational kiosks, which were installed in mid-December 2024, offer individual naloxone packages along with clear instructions in both English and Spanish. These instructions help users recognize the signs of an overdose and properly administer the medication. Mesa County Public Health has already received positive feedback about the kiosks, with some locations requiring restocking daily due to high demand.
The project was made possible through funding from the Overdose Data to Action and Harm Reduction Program, a statewide initiative supported by the CDC. In total, Mesa County purchased 12 kiosks, with plans to expand their reach further in the coming months to ensure even greater availability in the widespread county. Each kiosk, which cost around $5,000 to establish, provides naloxone at no charge to the public, helping to make the county safer for its residents.
Andrea Thomas, founder of the Voices for Awareness Foundation, shared her personal experience to underscore the critical need for naloxone. After losing her daughter to fentanyl poisoning, she became a strong advocate for the widespread availability of naloxone. Thomas emphasized that no one is immune to the dangers of fentanyl, which can be lethal even for those who may not intend to use illicit drugs.
As fentanyl-related overdoses continue to rise, Thomas and other advocates are pushing for naloxone to be as common as automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in public spaces. This call to action is becoming even more urgent as new dangerous substances, such as carfentanil and xylazine, are increasingly found mixed with fentanyl. While naloxone can reverse the effects of fentanyl, it may take multiple doses to counteract more potent substances like carfentanil.
Mesa County Public Health and the Western Colorado Area Education Center have partnered to ensure the ongoing supply and maintenance of these kiosks. With additional locations planned, the county hopes to create a safer environment and equip residents with the tools necessary to respond quickly to an overdose emergency. Naloxone, though not a cure for addiction, is an effective tool in preventing fatal overdoses and providing individuals with a chance to seek further treatment.
The success of the naloxone kiosk program highlights the importance of proactive harm reduction measures in the fight against opioid addiction. Mesa County's initiative is just one example of how communities can come together to address the opioid crisis and make a positive difference in public health. With continued support and expanded access to naloxone, lives can be saved, and the public’s awareness of the opioid epidemic can grow.
If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, reach out to Avenues Recovery to receive real and lasting help. Our expert staff have helped over 30,000 individuals fight their addictions, and can help you too. We employ a wide variety of therapies to tailor recovery to every client's needs. If you would like to turn your life around, contact us today. We will give you the tools to transform your life in a supportive and professional environment.