Opioid-related emergencies can happen to anyone–an older adult who accidentally takes too much medication, a curious child, a teenager experimenting for the first time, or someone exposed to a counterfeit pill. That’s why Emily’s Hope is committed to making lifesaving naloxone easily available to all South Dakotans.
With support from the South Dakota Attorney General and the South Dakota Departments of Social Services and Health, Emily’s Hope is expanding its Naloxone Distribution Program statewide. The initiative places free, anonymous naloxone distribution boxes in public, temperature-controlled locations, such as hospital entryways, libraries, clinics, grocery stores, gas stations, and other high-traffic community hubs.
Already proven effective in Sioux Falls, these boxes have directly contributed to overdose reversals. Each kit contains naloxone nasal spray, clear usage instructions, and does not require ID, insurance, or explanation. All boxes are routinely monitored and refilled to ensure constant availability.
In addition to community boxes, Emily’s Hope is introducing AED Naloxone Kits, compact kits placed alongside Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in both public and private buildings. Like AEDs, these naloxone kits are designed for bystander use in emergencies and contain easy-to-follow instructions, helping ordinary people become lifesavers.
Emily’s Hope is proud to partner with Tribal Nations, hospitals, municipalities, and community organizations throughout South Dakota to expand access to this critical intervention.
“When naloxone is available, lives are saved. It’s that simple,” said Angela Kennecke, founder of Emily’s Hope. “This expansion means more South Dakotans have a second chance at life, and a chance to seek recovery.”
The program is already gaining momentum, with hospitals across the state joining the effort, including:
- Sanford USD Medical Center, Sioux Falls
- Monument Health, Rapid City
- Prairie Lakes Healthcare System, Watertown
Emily’s Hope welcomes healthcare systems, tribal communities, local governments, and businesses to get involved.
To learn more or request a naloxone distribution box or AED Naloxone Kit, visit emilyshope.charity/our-impact/life-saving-tools or email marley@emilyshope.charity.
Together, we can save lives—one box, one kit, one second chance at a time.
