A controversial proposal to install a vending machine dispensing life-saving opioid overdose reversal medication has sparked debate, with proponents emphasizing its potential to save lives and critics raising concerns about enabling drug use.
The vending machine, intended to provide Narcan, a nasal spray that can reverse opioid overdoses, is seen by supporters as a critical harm reduction tool. “We’re not promoting drugs,” stated Kellogg-Marmosler, a committee member. “We would preferably have you contact Recovery is Happening and get some help. If they are not at that point we can save their life.”
moseng,another committee member,echoed this sentiment,highlighting the essential principle that survival is a prerequisite for recovery.”You can’t get clean if you’re not alive,” he remarked. “That’s the thing with the vending machine.There are some people who have overdosed once and they changed their life after that. there are other people who have gone five, six, seven times being saved and they haven’t come around to it. I would rather keep somebody safe.”
Beyond Narcan, plans are in motion to adorn the vending machine with wraps or magnets featuring contact details for Recovery is Happening, a local organization dedicated to addiction recovery. This aims to guide individuals towards seeking help when they feel ready. Additionally, there’s consideration for including cards within the machine and with the Narcan itself, offering further avenues for outreach.
“I think it’s breaking the stigma so people know there is access to this or that. That there are people out there who care,” Moseng explained. “The vending machine is a very small part. They see that there is somebody out there for harm reduction, helping them. Maybe it drives them to walk in the door and say, ‘I need help.'”
recovery is Happening, which requested funding for the initiative, will be responsible for stocking the machine and serves as an access point at its downtown location.The organization’s core mission aligns with the vending machine’s objective: preserving life.
“We don’t judge you. We don’t ask you any questions,” Moseng stated. “The vending machine will be a success.”
Kellogg-Marmosler expressed hope that this project will stimulate further funding requests, noting that the committee, established approximately three years ago, has experienced a slow pace in proposal submissions. “It’s actually been a little slow,” she said. “We want to see more of thes projects get going.”
Individuals interested in submitting funding requests can contact Kellogg-Marmosler via email at pamkn@co.mower.mn.us. more information about Recovery is happening can be found at https://recoveryishappening.org/.
