In a noteworthy initiative to address the pressing issue of the fentanyl crisis, the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce recently hosted Janice M. Celeste, the President and former CEO of our organization, as a keynote speaker at their renowned event, Wake Up! Newport. Her presentation focused on the severe impact of illicit fentanyl on the local community.

She delved into the alarming statistics, emphasizing the rising number of fentanyl-related incidents and the profound consequences it has on individuals and families. By addressing the grim reality of the crisis, Janice aimed to create awareness and inspire action within the Newport Beach community.

A crucial aspect of Janice’s presentation was the introduction of naloxone and its role in mitigating the consequences of a fentanyl overdose. Naloxone, also known as Narcan, is a medication that can rapidly reverse opioid overdoses.

Janice highlighted the importance of making naloxone readily available to the community and provided information on how individuals can obtain and administer this life-saving medication as our organization is a county recognized Naloxone Distribution Site. Please reach out to christine@fentanylsolution.org for free naloxone.

Janice M. Celeste passionately advocated for the inclusion of naloxone in first aid kits at home and in vehicles, emphasizing that being prepared can make a significant difference in saving lives. She informed the audience that her organization offers naloxone training to empower community members with the skills and knowledge needed to respond effectively in emergency situations

Beyond naloxone, we advocate for the efficacy of harm reduction tools in saving lives. We have collaborated with the CEO of a local Orange County fentanyl test strip manufacturing company called Wisebatch, Bryce Batcheller, to provide access to these essential tools.

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!

In the ongoing battle against the surging opioid crisis, initiatives aimed at educating and empowering communities have proven to be instrumental. Recently, our Development Director, Shane Wood, provided Naloxone training and discussed the crucial role of Fentanyl Test Strips with Mayor Farrah Khan and her staff in Irvine.

Naloxone, commonly known as Narcan, stands as a life-saving medication capable of rapidly reversing the effects of opioid overdose. Wood’s delivery of Naloxone training served as an educational platform designed to equip individuals with the necessary knowledge and tools to administer this critical medication effectively. The emphasis was on fostering a community of immediate responders who can potentially avert tragic outcomes

Test Strips. These strips act as a preventive measure, allowing individuals to test substances for the presence of fentanyl, an extremely potent and dangerous opioid responsible for a substantial number of overdose fatalities. Wood accentuated the significance of these strips as a harm reduction tool, stressing their ability to provide crucial information about the substances being consumed and potentially preventing fatal overdoses.

Furthermore, our existing Fentanyl Test Strips are sourced from WiseBatch, a local manufacturer specializing in these strips. Each packaged test strip is equipped with a QR code on its rear side, enabling individuals to anonymously report any positive results. This reporting mechanism serves to assist in identifying the locations with the highest prevalence of illicit fentanyl. The training carried a significant message

concerning the dire need to address the increasing incidents of opioid-related overdoses within the city of Irvine. The dialogue between Shane Wood and Mayor Farrah Khan marked a pivotal stride toward proactive and preventive measures