Overdose deaths among Black Philadelphians jumped 87 percent in just four years — a crisis city officials are addressing with a new initiative to distribute free naloxone in Black communities across the city.
The newly launched overdose prevention campaign, “Naloxone in Black” expands access to the life-saving overdose reversal drug. The initiative, led by the Office of Public Safety’s Overdose Response Unit, places free, anonymous naloxone distribution boxes outside 61 fire stations across the city.
Modeled on the national “You Have the Power to Save Lives” campaign, the effort aims to reduce stigma and ensure naloxone is available anytime, and can be accessible with no questions asked.
To sustain the initiative, the Overdose Response Unit plans to hire a staff member responsible for restocking the boxes, leading community training and outreach, and collecting data to track the program’s impact.
“Public safety doesn’t just mean responding to emergencies or preventing violence – it requires meeting the needs of our communities and ensuring people have the resources they need,” said Adam Geer, Chief Public Safety Director. “It is our shared responsibility as Philadelphians to care for each other and the Naloxone in Black campaign is one way we can do that.”
City officials say current naloxone distribution sites—such as resource centers and pharmacies—fall short due to limited hours, high costs, stigma, and unreliable pharmacy supplies. The Naloxone in Black initiative aims to remove those barriers by offering the medication for free and with no restrictions. Officials hope the approach will encourage more Philadelphians to carry naloxone to protect themselves, loved ones, and their communities.
“This partnership ensures that people across Philadelphia will have access to life-saving Naloxone at anytime of day,” said Martin McCall, Deputy Commissioner for Emergency Medical Services. “Our paramedics, EMTs, and firefighters respond to nearly 1,000 calls every day, and we are always ready to serve. But when naloxone is in your hands, you can be the first responder in those critical moments. Together, we can save more lives.”
Along with Naloxone in Black, information and resources on naloxone, including when and how to use it, and treatment options can all be found on the city’s website.
“Access to naloxone is critical because this medication is truly life-saving,” said Dr. Latika Davis-Jones, Pennsylvania’s drug and alcohol programs secretary.
