Newark Harm Reduction Resources

New Jersey's Naloxone365 program has dispensed over 95,000 two-dose naloxone (Narcan) kits to residents since launching in January 2023 โ€” free, anonymous, no prescription, available to anyone age 14 or older.

When you're ready, we're available 24/7.

Naloxone (Narcan) โ€” How to Get It Free

Naloxone365 is NJ's statewide free-Narcan program. Text or call 1-877-4NARCAN to order a kit by mail โ€” completely anonymous, no prescription. Or pick up in person at 650+ participating NJ pharmacies. Both options are free for anyone age 14+. Every household where someone uses opioids should have naloxone on hand. Bystander administration saves lives โ€” naloxone administered by EMS and law enforcement prevented overdose deaths 6,598 times in NJ during the first seven months of 2024 alone.

Fentanyl and Xylazine Test Strips

In January 2024, Governor Murphy signed legislation authorizing NJ Harm Reduction Centers to distribute xylazine test strips alongside fentanyl test strips. Test strips allow users to check drug supplies before use โ€” critical given ~23% of fentanyl samples contain xylazine (DEA). Test strips are available through Harm Reduction Centers across NJ and through the NJ Harm Reduction Coalition.

NJ Harm Reduction Coalition (NJHRC)

Distributes naloxone, operates street outreach, provides overdose response training, and offers connections to MAT and treatment when people are ready. Active in Newark. Contact through njharmreduction.org or via NJ 211.

Newark Community Street Team โ€” Overdose Response Team

Newark-based, community-rooted overdose response. Works directly in neighborhoods where OD risk is highest. More information at newarkcommunitystreetteam.org.

ReachNJ โ€” The State's Central Referral Line

ReachNJ (1-844-REACHNJ, or 1-844-732-2465) is New Jersey's central call-in line for SUD support. Answered by a live person within 30 seconds. Serves NJ residents regardless of insurance status. Provides referrals, information, and connection to local treatment providers.

When Harm Reduction and Treatment Connect

Harm reduction and treatment aren't opposed โ€” they're sequential for most people. Someone using fentanyl today may not be ready for residential placement; they can still receive Narcan, test strips, and peer support now, which keeps them alive long enough to be ready later. When the moment comes, our placement advisors at (973) 453-5031 are ready. No judgment about the timeline.

Related resources

When you're ready, we're available 24/7.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is getting free Narcan legal?

Yes. NJ's Naloxone365 program is state-sanctioned and explicitly legal. You don't need a prescription, and age 14+ can order without parental consent.

Will ordering Narcan go on my medical record?

Naloxone365 is anonymous by mail โ€” no record created. In-person pharmacy pickup may be recorded depending on the pharmacy's policies, but it's not reportable to an employer.

Does using harm reduction mean I'm not serious about recovery?

No. Most people who enter treatment have used harm reduction services first. It's a bridge, not a detour.

If this is an emergency

  • Medical emergency / active overdose: Call 911
  • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988
  • NJ HOPELINE: 1-855-654-6735
  • ReachNJ (state SUD helpline): 1-844-REACHNJ (732-2465)
  • Free Narcan by mail: 1-877-4NARCAN or text 4NARCAN
  • NJ CHAMP (insurance appeal): 1-888-614-5400