Salvation Army Offers Naloxone Education Program on June 18th

“This is our second year offering this prevention education and training, and we know it’s an effective way to combat opioid deaths."Photo byThe Salvation Army

REDLANDS, CA. — With opioid abuse on the rise, the Salvation Army is responding to the challenge by once again offering prevention education regarding opioid overdose and training on the use of Naloxone. This life-saving medication can reverse opioid overdoses. Naloxone is an antidote for treating heroin, fentanyl, and prescription opioid overdoses.

In February, U.S. News & World Report published an article headlined ‘Fourth Wave’ of Opioid Epidemic Crashes Ashore, Propelled by Fentanyl and Meth. Based on a study by Millennium Health testing labs, the article points out how common polysubstance abuse has become. In fact, “...an overwhelming majority of fentanyl-positive urine samples—nearly 93%—contained additional substances.”

The San Bernardino County Department of Public Health online dashboard shows 58 to 61% of fentanyl overdose deaths in the county for the years 2022 through 2024 had methamphetamine present. The dashboard also indicates fentanyl overdose deaths increased from 260 in 2020 to 432 in 2023, with 108 more as of May 2024.

“Our workshop led by San Bernardino County Department of Public Health helps raise awareness of trends in opioid abuse and how Naloxone can be used to treat overdoses. The workshop also includes training in prevention. With overdoses on the rise, concerned residents can learn how to combat abuse,” says Naomi Goforth, the Salvation Army Director of Programs.

Last year’s program provided education and training to over 100 people, and Goforth hopes for a similar turnout this year. The public is invited, and the program will be held at the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps’ administration building at 838 Alta St. in Redlands. The session starts at 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 18.

“This is our second year partnering with Public Health to offer this program,” says Goforth, “and we know it’s an effective way to combat opioid deaths.” She adds that the program will also be conducted at the Salvation Army’s Hospitality House and Path to Prosperity facilities for program participants.

For more information, call (909) 792-6868.

About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps

The Salvation Army may provide emergency services, including food, lodging for homeless or displaced families, clothing and furniture, assistance with rent or mortgage, and transportation when funds are available.

The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church that offers evangelical programs for boys, girls, and adults. One of the world’s largest charitable and international service organizations, The Salvation Army has existed since 1865 and in San Bernardino since 1885, supporting those in need without discrimination. Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by 1-(800) SAL-ARMY. Our local number is (909) 792-6868.