GRASS VALLEY, Calif. — BriarPatch Food Co-op will host a free community training, Harm Reduction 101 with Yuba Harm Reduction Collective, on Tuesday, Sept. 15, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. in the Co-op’s Grass Valley Community Room.
The event offers community members an opportunity to learn about harm reduction, connect with others and gain practical skills that could help save a life during an overdose.
Most overdoses are reversed by everyday people, rather than medical professionals or first responders. During the training, members of Yuba Harm Reduction Collective will teach attendees how to recognize and respond to an overdose, including how to administer Narcan. The training will also provide an introduction to harm reduction as a philosophy and movement rooted in compassion, cooperation and community care.
“Harm reduction is about recognizing that everyone deserves care, dignity and the opportunity to be supported,” said Katee Crimmel, Community Engagement Coordinator at Briarpatch. “This training gives community members the knowledge and tools they need to look out for one another, and that spirit of collective care aligns closely with our cooperative values.”
BriarPatch’s cooperative principles emphasize collective responsibility, empowerment and the well-being of the community. The event is part of the co-op’s ongoing efforts to create opportunities for community connection, education and mutual support.
Free Narcan and beverages will be available to attendees.
The event is free and open to the community, but registration is encouraged. To register, visit briarpatch.coop/event/community-connections/