North Country Savings Bank Expands Access to Lifesaving Naloxone

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CANTON, NY (04/10/2025) (readMedia)-- Canton, NY - April 10 - North Country Savings Bank is proud to announce the installation of NaloxBoxes at each of its five branches in Canton, Potsdam, Ogdensburg, Malone, and Massena. These publicly accessible boxes contain free doses of naloxone (commonly known by the brand name Narcan®), a medication that can reverse an opioid overdose and save lives.

The initiative is a partnership with the Northern Area Health Education Center (NAHEC), a regional leader in promoting community health education and harm reduction strategies. This effort reflects a growing commitment across the North Country to expand access to tools that reduce the harm of substance use and prevent fatal overdoses.

"As a community bank, we believe in looking out for the well-being of our neighbors, and that includes supporting access to critical resources like naloxone," said R. Brian Coakley, President and CEO of North Country Savings Bank. "NaloxBoxes are simple, effective tools that could help someone save a life. We're proud to play a small part in a much larger effort to build a safer, more compassionate community."

NaloxBoxes are mounted wall cabinets that hold doses of naloxone and easy-to-follow instructions for use. They are designed for emergency public access and are commonly installed in libraries, schools, community centers, and now banks-locations where people can easily reach them in a moment of need.

"This partnership is a powerful example of how local institutions can make a meaningful impact in the fight against overdose," said Whitney Callaghan, Center Director of NAHEC. "North Country Savings Bank is demonstrating leadership and care by opening their doors to harm reduction. We're grateful for their commitment and proud to support their team with training, supplies, and community education."

The effort is part of a broader harm reduction strategy to reduce opioid-related deaths in the region and remove stigma around substance use. By making naloxone widely available in trusted community spaces, more lives can be saved while continuing to connect individuals to services and support.

About North Country Savings Bank

North Country Savings Bank has been serving the financial needs of individuals, families, and businesses in the North Country for over a century. With branches in Canton, Potsdam, Ogdensburg, Malone, and Massena, and lending offices in Tupper Lake, Saranac Lake, and Plattsburgh the bank remains committed to supporting its communities through personalized banking services and active civic engagement.

About Northern Area Health Education Center (NAHEC)

NAHEC is a nonprofit organization that works to improve access to healthcare and health education in rural and underserved communities throughout Northern New York. NAHEC is a trusted partner in harm reduction, workforce development, and public health innovation.