How is the opioid epidemic being “handled” and what ways have communities in Philadelphia sought to help people addicted to opioids? Specifically, are there are any programs or tools in our city that promise to address this epidemic? This investigation uncovered a few ways people and organizations are helping our community and those effected by drugs.

Librarian,Librarian Chera Kowalski ,achieved national attention after repeatedly having to administer Narcan spray to people experiencing an overdose. Her use of Narcan, and the push to train librarians to administer Narcan, proves Philadelphians are looking for solutions in unusual places since the epidemic has reached serious level.

According to research opioid overdoses deaths grew by 10 percent last year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The AMA is working on having a program that will promote recovery.