For the first time ever, the Federal Government has begun to fund and promote Harm Reduction as part of ongoing efforts to combat what is now a historic number of overdose deaths.

Here in New York this change has resulted in millions of additional dollars - for a broad set of tactics that include the widespread distribution of the overdose reversing drug Naloxone to the expansion of needle exchange programs.

For the past year, reporter Christopher Booker has been exploring this tactical change - meeting with a broad group of people - from the states Office of Addiction Services and Supports, to researchers, to the police and individuals in recovery all in an attempt to understand how, if it all, Harm Reduction might help help the city and state turn the tide on a relentlessly tragic situation.

If you or someone you know is experiencing emotional crisis, dial 988 to reach the New York State Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

If you or someone you know needs addiction or substance support, call the New York State Hope line at 877-8-HOPE-NY or text HOPENY (467369).

Funding for this program is provided by the New York State Education Department.

As part of a week of special programs from New York State public media stations, including The WNET Group and WLIW-FM, we bring listeners a special program drawing attention to the very real problems of addiction and overdose in our area. Covid-19 and The Overdose Epidemic raises awareness of the epidemic and seeks to help people find prevention and treatment resources right here in our community.

This program is made possible with funding from the New York State Education Department, WLIW-FM, WLIW21, and our public media partners across the state.

Learn more at oasas.ny.gov. Thank you for listening.