ATLANTA — Georgia Overdose Prevention is working to get medication that can reverse opioid overdose into more people's hands. As they continue their fight against the opioid crisis in the Peach state, the organization is placing metal boxes around the state that contain the drug Narcan.
The metal boxes are open to the public and accessible anytime to anyone. Organizers have local representatives in each area where the boxes are installed to ensure they remain stocked with the life-saving nasal spray.
Andy Gish with Georgia Overdose Prevention installed the eighth box on Thursday in Fayetteville.
“Narcan is a lifesaving medication for someone experiencing an overdose. It’s safe to give even if you don’t know if someone is having an overdose," Gish said.
The installment was a joint effort with the founder of In Ryan's Name, Doreen Barr, whose lived in the Fayetteville for community for over 30 years.
“If this Narcan can save one life, then everything is worth it," said Barr.
Barr lost her son, Ryan, to an opioid overdose eight years ago. Three years after that, she founded In Ryan's Name, which is dedicated to drug prevention and addiction awareness.
“I think he’s looking down on me and would be so proud," Barr added.
The Fayetteville box is located on Bradford Square outside the Fayette Care Clinic, and leaders said there is also a number inside where residents can find more help.
In addition to the boxes that Georgia Overdose Prevention has installed, there are dozens of community groups and leaders who have created similar boxes in Georgia. This live map has locations listed of where to find other boxes.