New Season Treatment Center (NSTC) has taken a significant step in expanding harm reduction efforts with the launch of its first Harm Reduction Vending Machine, a collaboration with the Georgia Harm Reduction Coalition. This innovative initiative provides free access to life-saving health resources, including Narcan® (naloxone), syringes, and contraceptives, to help combat the opioid crisis and support community health.

Expanding Access to Critical Health Resources

The vending machine, located at NSTC’s NW Georgia facility in Fort Oglethorpe, is designed to remove barriers to essential harm reduction tools. Among the key supplies available are:

✔️ Narcan® (naloxone) – Proven to reverse opioid overdoses, preventing fatal outcomes.
✔️ Syringes – A critical component in reducing HIV and Hepatitis C transmission by up to 50%.
✔️ Contraceptives – Male contraceptives are 87% effective in preventing pregnancy and offer protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

“This vending machine is a practical and lifesaving tool for individuals at risk,” Darrell Lee, community liaison at NSTC, said. “By providing 24/7 access to harm reduction supplies, we are making it easier for people to take control of their health and prevent overdoses. We are meeting people where they are as we love and support them in recovery.”

Community Engagement and Celebration

NSTC marked the launch of this initiative with a Community Partnership Celebration on January 30, 2025, at its NW Georgia Treatment Center. The event brought together health advocates, local officials, and community members to discuss harm reduction strategies and the impact of this new resource.

“The response has been overwhelmingly positive,” Lee said. “Our patients and community members recognize the value of having these resources readily available, and they appreciate the proactive approach we’re taking to help protect lives.”

A current NSTC patient, who wished to remain anonymous, shared their experience:

“This is really a game-changer for the community. You guys are setting a new standard for saving lives around here!”

Future Expansion Plans

Following the success of the NW Georgia launch, NSTC plans to expand this initiative to additional treatment centers, increasing access to harm reduction supplies for more patients in need. By broadening this offering, NSTC aims to create a nationwide impact in the fight against opioid-related fatalities and infectious disease transmission.

“This is just the beginning,” John “Robby” Draper, program director at NW Georgia Treatment Center, said. “We are committed to bringing similar harm reduction solutions to other centers, ensuring that more individuals can benefit from easily accessible, life-saving resources.”

Join the Movement

NSTC encourages healthcare professionals, community leaders, and advocates to support harm reduction initiatives and expand access to these crucial health services.

For more information, please contact:
📩 Darrell Lee, Community Liaison
📧 Darrell.Lee@cmglp.com
📞 (689) 213-6839

As NSTC continues to prioritize patient care and harm reduction, the organization remains dedicated to building healthier communities and saving lives.