Governor Kathy Hochul announced Thursday that domestic violence shelters and service providers across New York State will now have access to free Overdose Emergency Kits. This initiative, a collaboration between the New York State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence (OPDV), the Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS), and the Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS), aims to support survivors of domestic and intimate partner violence who are at increased risk of overdose.
“The opioid and overdose epidemic has impacted far too many New Yorkers,” Governor Hochul said. “Alongside harm reduction, preventive, and treatment support programs, the expanded access to lifesaving overdose emergency kits in domestic violence programs will save lives, and we will continue to focus State resources towards addressing the overdose epidemic effectively and compassionately.”
The initiative continues Governor Hochul’s aggressive efforts to combat the opioid crisis. Over the past 18 months, New York has distributed nearly 700,000 Overdose Emergency Kits statewide. These kits, made possible by Project COPE, a SAMHSA grant-funded initiative, contain naloxone, a medication that reverses opioid overdoses, and training resources for its administration.
Research shows a strong correlation between domestic violence and substance use. Survivors often face increased risks of overdose due to factors like substance use coercion and trauma-related substance use. By providing naloxone and training to domestic violence programs, this initiative aims to bridge the gap and offer critical support to survivors.
OASAS Commissioner Dr. Chinazo Cunningham highlighted the importance of reaching individuals in domestic violence situations. “The naloxone included in these kits is one of the most important tools we have to prevent overdose deaths,” she said. “Making this medication more accessible will help save lives across New York State.”
OCFS Commissioner Dr. DaMia Harris-Madden underscored the multifaceted challenges faced by survivors. “The provision of these free Emergency Overdose Kits, coupled with requisite training and resources, enables domestic violence providers to respond effectively to opioid emergencies and save lives,” she said.
This initiative is part of a broader effort by New York State to address the opioid and overdose epidemic, including the allocation of over $335 million in opioid settlement funds for prevention, treatment, harm reduction, and recovery initiatives. Additionally, mobile units and outreach services are being deployed to connect high-risk individuals with necessary resources and support.
Governor Hochul’s announcement represents a significant step towards improving the safety and well-being of survivors of domestic violence in New York. With the implementation of these lifesaving measures, the state continues its commitment to combating the opioid crisis and supporting its most vulnerable residents.
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