Savannah nonprofit offering free Narcan, overdose training at Starland Yard

by WTOC Staff

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Community members can receive free Narcan and learn how to reverse an opioid overdose during an outreach event Thursday evening in Savannah.

Local nonprofit harm reduction organization No More ODs will host Save a Life Day from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Starland Yard on DeSoto Avenue.

The event is part of a nationwide initiative aimed at curbing overdose fatalities by distributing naloxone — commonly known by the brand name Narcan — directly to the public while teaching people how to spot and respond to an overdose emergency.

Throughout the night, volunteers will hand out free doses of Narcan alongside educational and harm reduction materials.

The Chatham County Fire Department Behavioral Health Unit will also participate, offering information on local services, support and treatment resources.

“Overdose can happen in any family, and having Narcan available can mean the difference between life and death,” said Lesli Messinger, founder and director of No More ODs. “You do not have to be a medical professional to save someone. We want as many people as possible in our community to carry Narcan and know how to use it.”

For Messinger, the work is deeply personal. She founded the organization after her 24-year-old son, Austin, died from an accidental opioid overdose.

“Every dose of Narcan we put into someone’s hands and every life that is saved is part of Austin’s legacy,” Messinger said.

The event is free and open to the public. More information can be found at nomore-overdoses.com.

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