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A new harm reduction program is making free naloxone, the overdose-reversal medication widely known as Narcan, available to anyone in Henry County, Virginia, no prescription or insurance required.
For people who cannot afford treatment or who are not yet ready for rehab, free resources nearby like these public naloxone boxes can mean the difference between life and death. The first box is already credited with saving a life.
What Are the Free Naloxone Boxes
The Virginia Harm Reduction Coalition, funded by a grant through Anthem Blue Cross, launched the initiative by placing free naloxone kits in publicly accessible boxes outside local businesses.
The first box went up outside New Moon Tattoo in Collinsville, and it was put to use almost immediately.
Tattoo artist Maple Tanney described the moment a person in crisis came to the shop: she administered naloxone and called 911, and the individual survived.
Ariel Johnson, the coalition’s West Piedmont director of operations, said the kits are available to anyone, no questions asked, because naloxone is the only evidence-proven medication that can reverse an opioid overdose.
Johnson also noted that naloxone is safe: it only activates in the presence of opioids and causes no harm if used on someone who has not taken them.
Who Can Access Free Naloxone in Virginia
Anyone. You do not need insurance, a prescription, identification or proof of income to take a kit from one of these boxes.
This is exactly the kind of free, no-barrier resource that serves uninsured individuals and underinsured communities in rural Virginia, where access to low-cost rehabs and treatment centers can be limited.
Martinsville Police Chief Chad Rhoads expressed support for the program, saying that keeping people who are struggling with addiction safe is a priority, and that the naloxone boxes are worth it if they save lives.
Signs of an Overdose and How to Respond
Johnson said to watch for bluish or purplish fingertips or lips and stopped or labored breathing as signs that someone may be overdosing. If you see these signs:
- Retrieve a naloxone kit from the nearest box
- Administer the nasal spray as directed on the packaging
- Call 911 immediately
- Stay with the person until help arrives
More Free Boxes Coming to Martinsville and Henry County
The coalition has secured a second grant through the National Council to fund six additional boxes, with three slated for Martinsville and Henry County.
Organizers are also seeking local business owners willing to host a box outside their location.Business owners interested in participating can contact Ariel Johnson at [email protected].
Finding Free Rehabs and Harm Reduction Resources Near You
Naloxone boxes are a critical bridge, but for people ready to take the next step toward recovery, free and low-cost treatment options exist throughout Virginia and nationwide.
- Check Medicaid eligibility: Virginia expanded Medicaid covers substance use treatment, including inpatient and outpatient rehab, at little to no cost for qualifying residents.
- Search free rehab centers near you: Rehabs.org lists free and sliding-scale treatment programs across Virginia and the country.
- Contact SAMHSA’s free national helpline: Call 1-800-662-4357 (HELP), available 24/7, confidential, and at no charge, for referrals to local treatment programs, support groups, and community services.
- Ask about sliding scale fees: Many nonprofit and faith-based rehab centers adjust costs based on income, you may pay little or nothing.
Explore Rehabs.org’s directory to find low-cost and free treatment options nationwide. You can call
800-914-7089
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to speak with a treatment specialist.
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