Truth Pharm continues to combat opioid crisis with new initiatives
BINGHAMTON, N.Y. (WIVT/WBGH) – A local non-profit organization dedicated to educating the community on substance use is inviting the public to join it in the fight to end overdose.
Truth Pharm is hosting a monthly event called 'Train the Trainer'.
During the 90-minute session, those in attendance will learn about addiction and how to use Narcan properly. They will then earn a certification that allows them to teach others how to use the lifesaving medication. Participants will also leave with five Narcan kits to distribute.
Truth Pharm has a goal of training 100 Broome County residents through the program. So far, it has trained over 60 people.
Founder and Executive Director Alexis Plues says she hopes participants walk away feeling empowered because they have the tools needed to save a life.
'You're more likely to come across a person experiencing an overdose than a heart attack. A lot of us have become CPR certified just because we want to be good community members and be able to help someone who might need it. Narcan training is the same thing,' said Plues.
The next training session is on Wednesday at 6 p.m. at the Truth Pharm office, located at 49 Pine Street in Binghamton.
In addition, Truth Pharm has a new initiative for certified Narcan trainers.
The Broome Overdose Prevention Specialists, or BOPS, are a volunteer team who brainstorm new ways to educate the community and prevent overdose in Broome County.
The group meets the second Thursday of every month.
Truth Pharm is also preparing for the annual Trail of Truth. Trail of Truth honors those who have lost their lives to substance use disorder while offering support to families and individuals impacted by overdose. The event will take place on August 16 in downtown Binghamton.
To learn more, search Truth Pharm on Facebook or visit truthpharm.org.
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