Recently, we had the privilege of attending and/or hosting resource tables at several significant events, spreading awareness, providing valuable information to the public and distributing naloxone and fentanyl test strips. Here’s a look at our involvement and its impact on the community.
Newport Beach Police Appreciation Luncheon
On April 26, 2024, we participated in the 51st Annual Newport Beach Police Appreciation Luncheon, hosted by the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce at the PENDRY.
Featuring special guest emcee Keith Morrison from NBC’s Dateline, the event provided a wonderful opportunity to connect with law enforcement and the community, demonstrating our support for those who risk their lives to keep our community safe.
Blossoming Together Event
On April 13, 2024, we were part of the Orange County Blossoming Together event in Irvine. This vibrant celebration of cultural diversity and wellness, organized by the OC Health Care Agency’s Office of Wellness and Suicide Prevention in partnership with nonprofit organizations, aimed to support veterans, the LGBTQ+ community, and individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. By participating, we highlighted the intersection of mental health and substance abuse, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach to wellbeing.
By hosting a resource table, we provided educational materials and support resources to attendees, raising awareness about the dangers of fentanyl and the importance of prevention. The community’s response was overwhelmingly positive, reinforcing the impact of combining advocacy with popular community events.
2024 Supplier Outreach Event
On May 16, 2024, we hosted a resource table at the 2024 Supplier Outreach event in Fountain Valley. This event connected local businesses with government projects, offering a platform to showcase products and services. Our presence allowed us to engage with local business leaders and highlight the critical issue of fentanyl in our community. By fostering these connections, we aim to integrate our advocacy efforts into broader community and business initiatives, enhancing collective action against the fentanyl crisis.
National Fentanyl Awareness Day at Angel’s Game
We observed National Fentanyl Awareness Day on May 9, 2024, by organizing a special event that brought together families, organizations, and community members to cheer for the Angels baseball team.
This event held deep and special significance, as it was dedicated to honoring the memories of all victims and to the memory of Tyler Skaggs, an Angels pitcher who tragically died from fentanyl poisoning. Our event not only provided an opportunity for the community to unite in support of the Angels but also to reflect on the importance of education, prevention, and advocacy in the fight against fentanyl.
Mission Viejo Pride Event
On Saturday, June 8, 2024, we proudly hosted a resource table at the Mission Viejo Pride Event, held at the World Cup Soccer Field. Organized by Mission Viejo’s Diversity + Inclusion Task Force and Saddleback College’s Rainbow Collective, this free event aimed to show LGBTQI+ families that our community is safe, welcoming, and values diversity and inclusivity.
We provided valuable information on fentanyl awareness, prevention, naloxone, and fentanyl test strips, engaging attendees with educational materials and support resources. By connecting with the community, we continue to make a positive impact on public health and safety.
Our Impact and Dedication
At each of these events, our team worked diligently to provide essential resources, raise awareness, and foster community connections. Our efforts are driven by a commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of those affected by the fentanyl crisis. By participating in these diverse events, we are able to reach a wide audience, educate the public, and advocate for effective policies.
The impact of our work is evident in the increased awareness and engagement we have seen within the community. Families, businesses, and individuals are becoming more informed about the dangers of fentanyl and the steps they can take to protect themselves and their loved ones. Our resource tables serve as a vital touchpoint for those seeking information and support, reinforcing the importance of education and advocacy in combating the fentanyl crisis.
Join us in our crucial mission to save lives from the fentanyl crisis and drive impactful awareness. Your donation today will make a significant difference!
The opioid crisis has taken a devastating toll on communities across the United States, and Southern California is no exception. To combat the rising threat of fentanyl-related overdoses, the Joint Regional Intelligence Center (JRIC), in partnership with the Overdose Response Strategy (ORS), has undertaken a comprehensive landscape analysis.
This analysis spans seven counties in Southern California, including Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura County.
The Goal?
To identify and provide access to free services for those in need of fentanyl test strips, naloxone, and prevention/treatment services.
The Need for Action
The opioid crisis has grown increasingly dire in recent years, with fentanyl emerging as a particularly lethal component of this epidemic. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine, making it a significant contributor to opioid-related overdoses. To address this crisis, it is imperative to provide resources and support to those at risk and their communities.
The Landscape Analysis
The landscape analysis is a pioneering effort to map out the availability of free services related to fentanyl across Southern California. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between individuals in need and the essential resources required for their safety and recovery. The seven counties covered by the analysis represent a substantial portion of the region’s population, making this endeavor all the more significant.
Accessible Resources
Recognizing the diversity of the Southern California population, the JRIC and ORS have gone the extra mile by providing resources in both English and Spanish. This inclusivity ensures that language barriers do not hinder individuals from accessing life-saving assistance. Whether you speak English or Spanish, these resources are readily available to you, reaffirming the commitment to leaving no one behind in the battle against opioid addiction. By clicking on a specific county and version, users can access a one-page list of free fentanyl resources.
The opioid crisis is an ever-evolving challenge. These resources will be updated every six months. This commitment to ongoing improvement ensures that individuals and organizations can rely on accurate and up-to-date information when assisting those in need.
Sharing the Lifeline
By identifying and sharing these resources, we empower individuals and organizations to take action, save lives, and build healthier communities. Together, we can make a difference in the fight against fentanyl poisonings.
Join us in our crucial mission to save lives from the fentanyl crisis and drive impactful awareness. Your donation today will make a significant difference!
As fentanyl overdose continues to be the leading cause of death among teens in Orange County and individuals aged 18-45 in the country, there is a growing focus on implementing precautionary measures. Among these measures, Fentanyl Test Strips (FTS) have emerged.
These test strips serve as a risk mitigator, particularly due to the uneven distribution of fentanyl (FTS Legis. Analysis). This is referred to as the “chocolate chip cookie effect.” In this analogy, the cookie symbolizes the entire substance like a pill, while the chocolate chips represent grains of fentanyl.
For example, even if a portion of the substance tests negative, there remains a significant likelihood of fentanyl being present in other parts of the substance or pill. To minimize risks as much as possible, it is crucial to dissolve the entire substance and test it.
To purchase WiseBatch Harm Reduction Fentanyl Test Strips, go to the link: WiseBatch
Fentanyl Test Strips are legal in the state of California.
Many inquire, “Is it safe to take a substance even after using a fentanyl test strip?” Ultimately, the answer is no. While it does help mitigate risks when testing the entire substance, there is still a possibility of fentanyl being present in the container it was given in or anything it has come into contact with, in addition to the 1-2% chance of the fentanyl strip failing. Even a mere 1% chance of fentanyl’s presence still poses a significant risk of overdose since only a minuscule amount equivalent to a grain of sand is enough to kill.
To purchase fentanyl test strips, click here. Be sure to check if fentanyl test strips are legal in your state.
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