Berkshire Harm Reduction Places 100th Naloxone Box in Community

NORTH ADAMS — Berkshire Harm Reduction, a Berkshire Health Systems program funded through the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, has achieved a major milestone in its efforts to promote free access to naloxone, a life-saving medication that can help prevent opioid overdoses. Over the past few years, Berkshire Harm Reduction has been working to place naloxone boxes in the community, where anyone can access the medication, also called Narcan, at no cost.

As 2025 began, Berkshire Harm Reduction teamed with Greylock Federal Credit Union for the placement of the 100th naloxone box, now located outside Greylock’s North Adams branch at 131 Ashland Street.

“By making Narcan accessible, we hope to foster understanding, compassion, and support for those who may be struggling in our communities,” Greylock President and CEO John Bissell said. “Many thanks to Cindy Shogry-Raimer and Rachel Mabee for their outstanding leadership in making these resources available at Greylock to support our neighbors in need.”

Sarah DeJesus, program manager of Berkshire Harm Reduction, noted that “our partnerships with Greylock and many other businesses and organizations across the Berkshires have ensured that all who live in our community have convenient access to this life-saving medication. Through the diligent efforts of Bob Dean, a harm-reduction specialist, Berkshire Harm Reduction has been able to place, stock, and maintain all of these essential boxes so that we can continue to reduce the risk of opioid overdoses and deaths in Berkshire County.”

Berkshire Harm Reduction’s placement program did not end after the 100th box, as the 101th was recently located outside of Redfield House at 48 Elizabeth St. in Pittsfield.

The program’s goal is to reduce the negative consequences associated with drug use, such as the spread of infectious diseases. In addition to free sterile supplies, fentanyl test strips, and Narcan, Berkshire Harm Reduction offers testing (for individuals age 13 and over) for HIV, hepatitis C, and other sexually transmitted infections, as well as basic wound care and abscess prevention.

To request a naloxone box or arrange a simple training on how to use naloxone, call Berkshire Harm Reduction at (413) 447-2654.