Newport

Overdose often does not happen as an isolated incident but after a period of someone strug­gling with addiction. So long as addiction continues to be a public health issue, overdose will con­tinue to be a public health issue. To mark IOAD, Newport County Pre­vention Coalition (NCPC) will join the statewide effort to distribute naloxone throughout the City of Newport.

In addition, NCPC will post a banner outside of city hall from Aug. 28 to Sept. 3, along with 219 purple flags, each one honoring a life lost to overdose in 2025. Further, to address the long-term needs of the community, the New­port City Council recently voted to establish a Public Health Vending Machine at the Newport Fire Sta­tion 1 on Marlborough Street. For years, this station has been consid­ered a safe station, where anyone struggling with addiction and in need of assistance can go to receive direct referrals to recovery services and other resources. The vending machine, owned and operated by AIDS Care Ocean State (ACOS) and accessible only to ACOS clients, will act as a crucial intervention for those who need harm reduction resources and basic needs mate­rials such as toothbrushes, first aid kits, hats and gloves.