The overdose crisis continues to have devastating impacts on individuals, families, and communities across Vermont. To address this public health emergency, the pilot Overdose Prevention Center (OPC) in Burlington will provide a comprehensive, evidence-based intervention aimed at saving lives, reducing harm, and connecting participants to essential services. The OPC will serve as a safe, supervised space for individuals who use drugs to: • Consume pre-obtained substances under the supervision of trained staff who are equipped to respond to overdoses and other emergencies. • Access harm reduction supplies, including sterile syringes, naloxone, and drug-checking services to prevent contamination-related harms. • Receive education on safer drug use, overdose prevention, and available treatment options. • Connect to a continuum of care through referrals to addiction treatment, medical care, mental health services, housing support, and other social services. The program will center the dignity, safety, and well-being of participants while prioritizing public health, community safety, and harm reduction principles. By providing a low-barrier, non-judgmental space, the OPC will not only save lives but also foster trust with people who use drugs, leading to greater opportunities for engagement in care and support services. A strong emphasis will be placed on collaboration and shared leadership through a collective impact model, ensuring meaningful participation from community stakeholders, people with lived experience, and public health experts. This approach will help build community-wide support, reduce stigma, and address the systemic inequities that exacerbate the overdose crisis.
