Linn County partners have been working to make naloxone, an opioid overdose-reversing drug, and other harm reduction resources easily accessible in our community. Now, that goal has become a reality with the implementation of seven vending machines throughout Linn County, including one at Mount Vernon at Gary’s Foods.
These vending machines offer free supplies and are open to anyone who is in need of the materials. The machines are equipped with nasal spray naloxone and other harm reduction tools, such as condoms and wound care kits. Items may vary by location.
Vending machine locations are:
• Cedar Rapids Comprehensive Treatment Center: 5005 Bowling St. SW Ste. C Cedar Rapids, IA 52404
• CRUSH OF IOWA Recovery Community Center: 317 7th Ave. SE Ste. 304 Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52401
• Gary’s Foods: 715 1st Ave. S Mount Vernon, IA 52314
• Hiawatha Public Library: 150 W. Willman St. Hiawatha, IA 52233
• Linn County Community Services Building: 1240 26th Ave. Ct. SW Cedar Rapids, IA 52404
• Linn County Mental Health Access Center: 501 13th St. NW Cedar Rapids, IA 52405
• Marion Public Library: 1101 6th Ave. Marion, IA 52302
The goal of this program is to reduce overdose deaths and prevent illnesses and/or infection that may be associated with the injection of substances and other behaviors.
Funding for this initiative is made possible by the Linn County Opioid Settlement Funds, which were awarded to the program by the Linn County Board of Supervisors. The Substance Misuse Committee of Linn County is managing the program.
By offering naloxone and other resources to our community, we can ensure individuals have access to these materials when they may need them most.
To learn more about this program, visit smclinn.org or contact the Substance Misuse Committee of Linn County.