In her efforts to prioritize public safety across District 9, Sen. Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick provided Hewlett-Woodmere Public Library with wall-mounted overdose emergency kits and naloxone first-aid pouches.
Aiding her were the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports — known as OASAS — and Project COPE, two state-run programs focusing on prevention and education. In a statement to the Herald, Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick wrote that libraries play a vital role in the community, describing them as community hubs.
“Libraries are more than just places to check out a book,” she said. “They welcome people from all walks of life, and it is important that they are equipped with the proper tools and resources for when someone needs help.”
Hewlett-Woodmere’s director, Michelle Young, expressed her gratitude for receiving the life-altering kits, and thanked Canzoneri-Fitpatrick for including the library on her trip — one that included 11 other libraries.
“With over 2,000 visitors daily, we want to ensure that everyone who walks through our doors feels welcome,” Young said. “Having these life-saving kits adds to the health and well-being of our community.”
Back in January, Young said the library contacted the Nassau County office of Mental Health in anticipation of receiving the kits. She said she wants to ensure staff are trained on the procedures for using overdose response materials, which will occur in April. “Having trained staff is the key to saving a life in an emergency,” she said.
Fatal overdoses have occurred for a variety of reasons, according to COPE. This includes increased substance use, lethality of the substance, mental health symptoms like isolation and those who use substances alone. Overdoses have seen a sharp decline since the pandemic. This past year, overdoses — namely opioids — have declined by 16 percent across the county, according to county medical examiners.
In addition to Hewlett-Woodmere, Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick secured overdose response kits for Peninsula Public Library, in Lawrence, as well as Malverne, East Rockaway, Elmont, Floral Park, Franklin Square, Long Beach, Lynbrook, Oceanside and Valley Stream.
Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick will continue to partner with state and local organizations and institutions. The goal, she says, is to expand access to life-saving resources and ensure communities across Senate District 9 are prepared to respond in emergency situations.
“When emergency happens, every second matters,” she said. “As elected officials, we need to make sure our community spaces are prepared to respond and protect lives.”
