Toolkit for Faith-Based Organizations to Prevent Overdoses and Reduce Harm

Organizations to Prevent Overdoses and Reduce Harm
Faith Community Collaborative Overdose Reduction Technical Assistance Center
University of Pittsburgh Program Evaluation and Research Unit

Opioid overdose and substance use disorder (SUD) are both serious issues in Pennsylvania.1 To reduce opioid overdoses, deaths, and incidences of SUD, the University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy Program Evaluation and Research Unit (PERU) Overdose Reduction Technical Assistance Center (ORTAC) assists with the implementation of community-based overdose prevention and harm reduction programs and initiatives through the creation and support of community coalitions.

This toolkit is intended for faith-based organizations (FBO) and similar places of worship to expand and strengthen their roles within the community to prevent drug overdoses, reduce harm from drug use and SUD, and establish pathways to identify and treat addiction and mental health issues. FBO can help prevent overdoses by educating community members, connecting them with healthcare and treatment providers and community support systems, and providing life-saving tools, such as naloxone (also known as Narcan—see Create a Safer Community for more information). FBO and faith leaders already work to cultivate strong communities, provide spiritual support and guidance for individuals in need, and create space for other community programs aligned with their mission.

The programs and strategies described in this toolkit are a natural extension of this important work.

Best Practices / Toolkits