Narcan Vending Machine Now Available on Campus
Monterey Peninsula College continues to strengthen its response to the opioid epidemic by expanding access to free, lifesaving naloxone (Narcan) on campus. Through a partnership with the Monterey County Health Department, we have installed a Narcan vending machine in the Student Center, making this critical medication available to anyone who may need it- quickly, discreetly, and at no cost. Each vending machine offers free Narcan (naloxone) and fentanyl test strips, along with simple, step-by-step instructions in English and Spanish so that anyone can recognize the signs of overdose and respond quickly. The machines feature a touchscreen interface and are stocked with up to 250 units of naloxone and 250 fentanyl test strip kits at a time. MPC is proud to be one of eight locations in Monterey County selected to host a Narcan kiosk, reflecting our shared commitment to prevention and harm reduction.
This important public health initiative builds on years of coordinated campus efforts to address the opioid epidemic. Student Health Services has been proud to coordinate these efforts in partnership with campus leaders and community partners, advancing a shared, college-wide commitment to student safety and wellness. These efforts include obtaining a standing order for our campus to support access to naloxone, providing trainings for students, staff and faculty on overdose recognition and response, partnering with Prescribe Safe for educational presentations, and hosting outreach and tabling events with community partners such as SunStreet and Community Human Services.
Most recently, Student Health Services received approval to place Narcan in all 17 AED cabinets across our 3 campuses, further increasing access in high-traffic areas and alongside emergency response equipment. The addition of the Student Center kiosk vending machine is the next step in this comprehensive, prevention-focused approach to saving lives and supporting the well-being of our campus community.
For more information on naloxone distribution locations and additional harm reduction resources, you may visit the Monterey County Behavioral Health Website.