RI opens first state-sanctioned overdose prevention center

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Project Weber/RENEW and clinical partner VICTA announced the opening of the state-regulated overdose prevention center.

The 20,500-square-foot-space will be located at 45 Willard Avenue next to the Rhode Island Hospital in Providence, where it will be home to comprehensive medical, clinical, and social support services.

The center will be moving its current operations from its Broad St. location, and is set to open Summer 2024.

Colleen Daley Ndoye, Executive Director of Project Weber/RENEW shared the following statement:

“In 2022, Rhode Island lost 434 lives to the overdose epidemic. This overdose prevention center is a pivotal element in the state’s comprehensive efforts to combat this crisis — It’s imperative to take decisive action to save lives.”

The center will provide people to safely use pre-obtained substances under the supervision of trained professionals. The facility will also provide test-kits for individuals to test their drugs for fentanyl and other substances.

Trained professionals will also be readily available to preform overdose reversal protocol.

“Safe consumption sites” or “harm reduction centers” provide a range of services, including access to basic needs like water, food, hygiene products, and other preventative services.

VICTA’s Chief Operating Officer Lisa Peterson released her statement on this program:

“We know that motivation can be fleeting, and that recovery is not linear; we are committed to helping people stay as healthy as possible through every stage in their process.”

Legislation passing the approval of this facility was passed in 2021 and is set to remain active until March 2026.

The center’s operations are funded by opioid settlement funds designated for RI, administered by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services.