Greylock Federal Credit Union has partnered with Berkshire Harm Reduction to make Narcan resources available in exterior boxes at four of its credit union branches throughout Berkshire County, as part of Greylock’s commitment to community well-being.
Narcan boxes are now available outside of the West Street, Kellogg Street, North Adams, and Great Barrington branches. The initiative was led by the following Greylock team members: Cindy Shogry-Raimer, Vice President and Director of Community Development, and Rachel Mabee, Vice President, Culture and Brand.
“By making Narcan accessible, we hope to foster understanding, compassion, and support for those who may be struggling in our communities,” said Greylock’s President and CEO John Bissell. “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.”
“We are proud to be the first financial institution to partner with Berkshire Harm Reduction to install Narcan boxes at some of our branch locations. This initiative reflects our deep commitment to the well-being of our community and provides a vital resource that could save lives,” said Mabee. “At Greylock, we believe in taking proactive steps to support our neighbors, and these life-saving devices are a crucial part of that effort.”
Greylock’s collaboration with Berkshire Harm Reduction is one of an ever-expanding network of organizations and businesses involved in this life-saving initiative. “We started placing these Narcan boxes at various businesses and locations throughout the County in April of 2023, and I’m thrilled to say that Greylock’s North Adams branch received our 100th box,” said Program Manager Sarah DeJesus, of Berkshire Harm Reduction. “To date, we’ve distributed over 5,000 individual packages of Narcan, and the data is already showing a reduction in fatal overdoses in the area since we started the program. We’re hoping that Greylock’s example will inspire other organizations to participate as well.”
Substance abuse and the use of Narcan can sometimes carry a negative connotation. Greylock and Berkshire Harm Reduction want to emphasize the importance of helping to destigmatize these issues.
“As a community development financial institution that is committed to serving all members in our community, it speaks volumes to be able to actively support this life-saving initiative and help to reduce the stigma associated with addiction,” said Shogry-Raimer.
A series of awareness trainings for staff will be made available at the locations where Narcan kits are available. These sessions will familiarize participants with Narcan, its purpose, and its use, as well as provide an opportunity to address any questions.