As communities across the nation continue to see rising rates of opioid addiction and overdose, access to life-saving resources has never been more important. At Crawford County Mental Health Center (CCMHC), client, staff, and community safety remain a top priority, and we are committed to being prepared to respond in critical moments.
CCMHC has Naloxone, an opioid antagonist that can reverse the effects of an overdose, available at each of our facilities that provide direct client services. In addition to in-facility access, CCMHC in partnership with DCCCA also offers community access to Naloxone through a Naloxone vending machine located outside of our Addiction Treatment Center. This machine provides free, no-barrier access to Naloxone, helping ensure life-saving medication is available when it is needed most, including outside of normal business hours. This effort reflects CCMHC’s commitment to harm reduction, prevention, and meeting individuals where they are in their recovery journey.
To further strengthen emergency preparedness, CCMHC recently installed Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) at two of our highest-traffic locations. This addition allows for a more comprehensive response to potential medical emergencies within our facilities. To ensure staff feel confident and prepared, CCMHC Registered Nurses provided hands-on training to employees at these locations. Staff were trained on proper operation and response procedures, reinforcing a culture of readiness and teamwork. The AED units also provide clear, step-by-step audio instructions to guide users during an emergency.
This important initiative was made possible through the generosity of the Mount Carmel Foundation Legacy Grant, administered by the Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas (CFSEK). Their support helped fund our project, “Everybody Hurts: Medical Equipment for Mental Health,” which focuses on equipping our facilities and community with essential tools to support safety and emergency response.
We extend our sincere gratitude to the Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas for their continued commitment to strengthening mental health services in our region. CFSEK manages charitable funds established by donors who are passionate about giving back and improving the quality of life for individuals and families throughout Southeast Kansas and beyond.
To learn more about the Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas and the impact of their work, visit southeastkansas.org or call 620-231-8897.