WATERTOWN, S.D. — In a proactive response to a surge in suspected fentanyl-related overdoses, Emily’s Hope has expanded its free naloxone distribution program to Watertown, installing two new naloxone boxes at Prairie Lakes Hospital and the Watertown Regional Library.
The initiative follows two recent near-fatal overdoses in the community, both believed to involve powder fentanyl. In one case, Watertown police administered naloxone and performed CPR to revive an unresponsive man. In another case, emergency responders revived an individual found unconscious in a public restroom.
“This donation from Emily’s Hope is about one thing: saving lives,” said Watertown Police Chief Tim Toomey. “By making naloxone more accessible to the public, we are giving our community the power to act in a critical moment and potentially prevent a tragedy. We are sincerely grateful for this partnership.”
Prairie Lakes Healthcare System also played a key role in the local expansion, where the latest box is located in the emergency room entrance, which is open to the public 24/7. “This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to saving lives and addressing the opioid crisis with compassion and action,” said Monica Everson, director of the Emergency Department at Prairie Lakes. “Together, we’re making vital resources more accessible to those who need them most.”
Emily’s Hope has now distributed more than 10,000 doses of naloxone throughout South Dakota through partnerships with healthcare providers, libraries, and law enforcement agencies. Each distribution box is stocked monthly with kits that include two doses of naloxone, gloves, and information on treatment and recovery resources.
“We know that fast access to naloxone can mean the difference between life and death,” said Angela Kennecke, founder of Emily’s Hope. “With overdose deaths continuing to rise in our state, it’s critical that communities like Watertown are equipped to respond immediately.”
The anonymous, no-questions-asked naloxone distribution program is supported by the South Dakota Attorney General’s Office, Department of Social Services, and Department of Health. Secretary of Health Melissa Magstadt, a Watertown resident, has been a strong advocate for the initiative.
“This innovative partnership is gaining the interest of national organizations as a potential key to changing the trajectory of opioid overdose,” Magstadt said. “We look forward to continuing this project to keep saving lives—one box of naloxone at a time.”
Angie Collignon, Substance Use and Justice Programs Coordinator for Codington County, underscored the personal impact.
“Because of Emily’s Hope, more families are spared the heartbreak of losing a loved one, and more individuals are given the opportunity to find recovery and hope,” she said.
Community members are encouraged to carry naloxone, especially if they know someone at risk of opioid overdose. Authorities warn not to touch any suspicious substances and to contact 911 immediately.
For more information on naloxone access or to support Emily’s Hope, visit emilyshope.charity/find-narcan.
