Teen Donates $1.3M in School Supplies

Daily Upsider on August 14, 2024

An 18-year-old from Oklahoma organized his ninth annual Back-to-School Book Bag, distributing 6,000 backpacks filled with school supplies.

Over the past nine years, the event has provided more than 33,000 backpacks and $1.3 million worth of supplies to students and families in Reed Marcum’s hometown and neighboring states including Oklahoma, Texas, and Arkansas. The drive-thru event is part of Reed Marcum’s efforts to support the McAlester community in Pittsburg County.

“I want to help kids get their school year started right,” said Reed, a rising sophomore at Oklahoma State University. “We’ve been doing this for nine years, and it’s fulfilling to know we’re helping kids get excited about their education.”

Inspired by his involvement in 4-H, a youth organization focused on leadership, Reed’s giveaway is part of his annual 4-H service project. His work has earned him the 4-H Youth in Action Award and national recognition, including a $5,000 scholarship and opportunities to network with 4-H alumni. Since 2016, Reed has also hosted an annual 4-H Toy Giveaway. Last year’s event saw over three miles of cars lined up at the Southeast Expo Center in McAlester, where he distributed more than 10,000 toys.

“I’m grateful to 4-H for the support and opportunity to make a difference in my community.” Reed’s efforts are supported by the Sergeant Miles Tarron Foundation and Hudson Strong. To contribute, click here.

Naloxone Vending Machine Saves 900+ Lives from Overdoses

Daily Upsider on January 2, 2024

In a realistic move to tackle opioid overdoses, naloxone vending machines are proving effective in various U.S. locations. Cincinnati-based nonprofit Caracole initiated the effort in Ohio, installing a 24/7-accessible vending machine outside its building in February 2021. The machine, designed for rapid opioid overdose reversal, has saved 960 lives in under two years, as per a University of Cincinnati study.

Naloxone nasal sprays work by delivering the medication directly into the nasal cavity, where it is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream through the mucous membranes. The medication then rapidly reverses the effects of opioids by binding to the opioid receptors in the brain and blocking the effects of other opioids. This can quickly restore normal breathing and consciousness in individuals experiencing an opioid overdose. While this self-service system is not widespread in the U.S., it takes inspiration from successful European practices.

Encoura by success in Cincinnati, Dr. Arendt and Caracole are collaborating with other organizations to expand these vending machines nationally. Cities like San Diego, Las Vegas, New York, and Indiana have recently adopted similar programs, providing accessible naloxone and fentanyl resources as part of harm reduction strategies.

Suzanne Bachmeyer, Caracole’s director of prevention, underscores the vending machines’ role in harm reduction by offering around-the-clock access to life-saving supplies, empowering individuals to manage their health.

As these initiatives gain momentum, the presence of naloxone vending machines is growing, representing a practical stride in overdose prevention and harm reduction efforts across the country.