DEWITT, Co. — DeWitt County organizations are working together to save lives.
Narcan (Naloxone), the opioid-overdose reversal drug, is available free of charge throughout DeWitt County, according to DeWitt County ROSC (Recovery Oriented System of Care).
In addition to first responders who carry Narcan, the public can get free Narcan 24 hours a day, seven days a week, through an outdoor weatherproof cabinet located (or soon to be) at these locations: Farmer City Public Library, Vespasian Warner Library in Clinton, Weldon Village Hall, and Kenney and Wapella Fire Departments. A host-site for a sixth box is being sought.
The DeWitt County Community Mental Health Board provided funding for the cabinets. Host-sites will work with the ROSC and the Health Department to monitor and supply the cabinets.
During business hours, residents can get free Narcan at the DeWitt-Piatt Bi-County Health Department, Heritage Behavioral Health Center, Warner Hospital, and the Neighborhood Care Center in Clinton. Anyone that uses opioids, whether they are prescribed or illicit, and their family members, should have Naloxone on hand in case of accidental overdose or misuse by someone in the home. Anytime Narcan is used, 911 also should be called if first responders aren’t already on the scene.
Maggie Memmott, ROSC coordinator reported that “seven lives were saved because of Narcan in DeWitt County in 2024.”
Narcan is easy to administer through a nasal spray. The next free public training is March 28, 1 pm, at DeWitt Manor Community Room, in Clinton. Training is available free of charge through the DeWitt County ROSC (Recovery Oriented System of Care) by calling Memmott, at 217-935-8804. The ROSC is available to walk with anyone on their journey to recovery and provide support for the family, said Memmott.
