Monterey County Officials will be Holding a Ribbon Cutting Event in Salinas on May 1 to Launch Expanded Access to Overdose Prevention with Free Naloxone and Fentanyl Test Strip Vending Machines

 

On Thursday, May 1 at 1 p.m., MST Salinas Transit Center, 110 Salinas St, Salinas,  Monterey County will host a ribbon-cutting event to mark the launch of a new initiative to provide free, 24/7 access to naloxone and fentanyl test strips through public vending machines located throughout the county.

WHO: Monterey County Health Department and Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST).

WHAT: In recognition of Mental Health Month and National Fentanyl Awareness Day, Monterey County is taking action to prioritize public health and reduce overdose deaths with the launch of four new naloxone and fentanyl test strip vending machines throughout the county. A ribbon-cutting ceremony will mark the installation of one of four new machines, which are stocked with naloxone (Narcan), fentanyl test strips, and step-by-step instructions in English and Spanish. Naloxone, also known by the brand name Narcan, is a safe and effective medication that can reverse an opioid overdose within minutes. By increasing access to naloxone through public vending machines, Monterey County is taking a proactive step to combat the opioid crisis and ensure more people have the chance to survive an overdose and connect to the care and support they need. 

WHEN: Thursday, May 1 from 1 p.m. 

WHERE: MST Salinas Transit Center, 110 Salinas St, Salinas, CA 93901.

WHY: Opioids are involved in nearly 75% of drug overdose deaths nationwide. This initiative aims to reduce preventable overdose deaths in Monterey County by expanding access to life-saving tools and resources. The vending machines are a key part of the County’s broader public health strategy supported by opioid settlement funds.

PHOTO/INTERVIEW OPPORTUNITIES:

    Ribbon cutting with local officials

    Demonstration of vending machine use

    Remarks from County Health Department and MST leadership