Berkshire Harm Reduction Hits Naloxone Milestone
NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Berkshire Harm Reduction, a Berkshire Health Systems program funded through the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, has achieved a milestone in its efforts to promote free access to Naloxone, a life-saving medication that can help prevent opioid overdoses.
Over the past few years, Berkshire Harm Reduction has been working to place Naloxone boxes in the community, where anyone can access the medication, also called Narcan, at no cost and by just opening the boxes to retrieve the medication.
"By making Narcan accessible, we hope to foster understanding, compassion, and support for those who may be struggling in our communities," said Greylock's President and CEO John Bissell. "Many thanks to Cindy Shogry-Raimer and Rachel Mabee for their outstanding leadership in making these resources available at Greylock to support our neighbors in need."
As the year turned to 2025, Berkshire Harm Reduction teamed with Greylock Federal Credit Union for the placement of the 100th Naloxone box, now located outside of Greylock's North Adams branch on Ashland Street.
"Our partnerships with Greylock and many other businesses and organizations across the Berkshires have ensured that all who live in our community have convenient access to this life-saving medication," said Sarah DeJesus, Program Manager of Berkshire Harm Reduction. "Through the diligent efforts of Bob Dean, a Harm Reduction Specialist, Berkshire Harm Reduction has been able to place, stock, and maintain all of these essential boxes so that we can continue to reduce the risk of opioid overdoses and deaths in Berkshire County."
"We are proud to be the first financial institution to partner with Berkshire Harm Reduction to install Narcan boxes at some of our branch locations. This initiative reflects our deep commitment to the well-being of our community and provides a vital resource that could save lives," said Rachel Mabee, Greylock's Vice President, Culture and Brand. "At Greylock, we believe in taking proactive steps to support our neighbors, and these life-saving devices are a crucial part of that effort."
"I am thrilled that Greylock agreed to install not just one, but four Narcan boxes at various branches," said Cindy Shogry-Raimer, Greylock's Vice President, Director of Community Development. "Greylock is a community development financial institution that is committed to serving all members in our community. We are honored to be able to actively support this life-saving initiative and help to reduce the stigma associated with addiction." Greylock has Naloxone boxes at two branches in Pittsfield, one in Great Barrington, and now one in North Adams.
Berkshire Harm Reduction's placement program did not end after the 100th box, as number 101 was recently located outside of Redfield House on Elizabeth St. in Pittsfield.
Berkshire Harm Reduction's goal is to reduce the negative consequences associated with drug use, such as the spread of infectious diseases. In addition to free sterile supplies, fentanyl test strips, and Narcan, Berkshire Harm Reduction offers testing (individuals 13 and over) for HIV, Hepatitis C, and other STIs (sexually transmitted infections) as well as basic wound care and abscess prevention.
Berkshire Harm Reductions aims to mitigate health complications from substance use by providing comprehensive services to people with substance use disorder.
To request a Naloxone box or arrange a simple training on how to use naloxone, call Berkshire Harm Reduction at 413-447-2654.
Tags: BHS, BMC,
