Oak Park's Public Health Department distributed more than 20 free Narcan kits through a new partnership with the Community Fridge Project in October.
The village announced the expansion in its weekly manager's report for the week ending Oct. 30. Free opioid overdose prevention kits from the Public Health Department are now available at all Community Fridge Project locations alongside pantry staples and fresh food.
The Community Fridge Project is managed by the Community of Congregations and run by volunteer teams. Its mission is reducing food insecurity and providing necessities to neighbors in need. Adding Narcan kits to the fridges puts overdose prevention supplies in spots residents already visit for groceries.
The fridge locations join existing distribution boxes already installed around Oak Park. The weekly report describes eight existing boxes, while the village's Opioid Overdose Prevention page describes seven public-facing locations but lists eight addresses. Locations include corners at South Boulevard and Harlem Avenue, North Avenue and Ridgeland Avenue, the Oak Park Public Library Main Branch at 834 Lake St. and The Children's Clinic at 28 Madison St. Most boxes are accessible around the clock.
Each free pouch contains two doses of Narcan, drug checking strips and instructions, according to the village. Medical Reserve Corps volunteers refill the boxes every week.
In 2022, 151 people in Oak Park experienced an opioid overdose, according to the Public Health Department's program page.
The department also offers free, in-person overdose response training at the Community Recreation Center at 229 Madison St. Residents can contact the Public Health Department at 708-358-5480 or [email protected] for details.
