To combat the opioid crisis and save lives, Emily’s Hope is proud to announce the opening of four new naloxone distribution boxes on the Pine Ridge and Rosebud Reservations. These boxes are now available to the public at the following locations:
-
Oglala Sioux Tribe Building – Pine Ridge
-
Oyate Teca Project – Kyle
-
Buche Foods – Mission
-
Buche Foods – Pine Ridge
This expansion was made possible through meaningful partnerships with the Oglala Sioux Tribe, Buche Foods, and the Oyate Teca Project—all committed to increasing access to lifesaving resources in their communities.
“The Oglala Sioux Tribe is honored and proud to host one of Emily’s Hope naloxone nasal spray distribution boxes at the Oglala Sioux Tribe Building in Pine Ridge. Providing free life‑saving tools like naloxone through accessible community-based locations is a vital step toward reducing opioid-related harm and stigma. Together with Emily’s Hope, we stand committed to protecting lives and ensuring naloxone is within reach,” said Shaina Johnson, Senior Advisor, Oglala Sioux Tribe Vice President’s Office.
On the Pine Ridge Reservation, boxes have been installed at Buche Foods in Pine Ridge, the Oglala Sioux Tribe Tribal Office in Pine Ridge, and the Tribal Administration building in Kyle. In South Dakota, American Indians have died of overdose at a rate 4.6 times higher than White residents. By placing naloxone boxes directly in tribal communities, Emily’s Hope is working to address this devastating disparity with immediate, life-saving access.
“We have so many customers that have grabbed kits, almost 100 kits have left the store. The community is grateful to have a close remedy that is easily accessible. We have lost many of our people to OD’s already, we hope this can help save a few of those lives at risk.” -Tameka Vocu, Pine Ridge Buche Foods Manager
Naloxone, also known by the brand name Narcan, is a medication that rapidly reverses opioid overdoses. It is safe, easy to use, and effective—even for those without medical training. With the growing presence of fentanyl in the drug supply, naloxone is more important than ever—not just for people with substance use disorder, but for families, friends, and bystanders who may witness an overdose.
“Native American communities in South Dakota have been hit especially hard by the opioid crisis. Overdose deaths among Indigenous people are several times higher than among white residents. That’s why it’s so important to bring naloxone directly into these communities—where it can truly make a difference. By making this lifesaving medication easy to access, we’re giving people a second chance and helping to save lives.” — Angela Kennecke, founder of Emily’s Hope, said.
Emily’s Hope encourages community members to pick up free naloxone and to carry it with them. You never know when you may encounter someone experiencing an opioid emergency.
To find the exact addresses for these new locations or to view all of Emily’s Hope Naloxone Distribution Box sites, please visit: emilyshope.charity/narcan.
Comments