Ford Visits Overdose Prevention Center in New York, Urges Further Support in Illinois

NEW YORK – Emphasizing his continued push to develop overdose prevention centers in Illinois, state Rep. La Shawn K. Ford, D-Chicago, toured OnPoint NYC on Monday to observe operations and see firsthand the impact it has had in enhancing lives.

“Overdose prevention centers are good for communities, but even more importantly, they are critically valuable in saving lives and giving people a chance at life,” Ford said. “As we begin the process of starting overdose prevention sites in Illinois, it’s important to learn best practices and see how they’ve been implemented in other cities. OnPoint NYC has been at the forefront of delivering care to marginalized communities, and it’s a privilege to see firsthand the lifesaving impact they provide every single day. Collaboration is crucial, and I encourage Illinois officials to engage OnPoint and better understand their work.”

OnPoint NYC is the largest harm reduction service provider on the east coast, providing assistance with clinical care, professional development, case management, overdose training and more. Its overdose prevention centers provide safe, supportive spaces that are staffed by trained professionals available to immediately respond to health crises.

Last week, the Illinois Opioid Remediation Advisory Board approved $18 million to support up to three pilot overdose prevention sites over a three-year period. The money comes from the state’s opioid settlement fund, and is a concrete step forward after years of advocacy from Ford and local groups. Ford is continuing to push in Springfield, where he filed legislation (House Bill 2929) Wednesday proposing the Department of Human Services to collect research and data regarding overdose prevention sites and to further develop a pilot program.

“We can’t turn our back on those impacted by drugs and we can’t continue down a failed path that marginalizes those who need help,” Ford said. “Visiting OnPoint NYC and meeting the dedicated staff here reminds me of the immediate opportunity we have in Illinois to choose a better future. Let’s choose to uplift our neighbors, let’s support lifesaving overdose prevention centers.”

For more information, please contact RepFord@LaShawnFord.com. Additional information about OnPoint NYC can be found at onpointnyc.org.