MO: How the T is bringing aid and services to those at risk for overdose

The T is a holistic harm reduction program that bridges the fatal gaps in care for people at risk for overdose due to trauma related drug use.

ST. LOUIS — Je’mal Barnes is no stranger to helping people. But now, the former EMT is bringing aid directly to the community.

“Help them help themselves, so I go step by step, tell them what I am doing and why I am doing it,” says Barnes, Outreach Director.

Barnes is the outreach director for the T. The organization is a holistic harm reduction program that bridges the fatal gaps in care for people at risk for overdose due to trauma related drug use.

Harm reduction is a transformative approach that empowers people who use drugs with the choice to live healthy, purpose-filled lives. The organization does this with the help of the T on wheels. The T visits 12 different outreach sites where they provide harm reduction supplies, wound care, self-care such as acupuncture and essential oils, education and Narcan.

“Every minute where someone does not get air, nor Narcan is a minute they are closer to death itself,” says Dr. LJ Punch.

Because the T was not only created to help those using drugs, but also, to teach those in the community how you can save a life! The t is distributing ‘are u ok’ kits every week. These kits are the difference between life and death. In each kit, you can find Narcan, a CPR mask, cleaning wipes, food, and information.

Barnes shares that at every outreach sight he encounters at least 1 person now on the road to recovery.

“Most of them say it is the conversation I tell them, it is them,” says Barnes.

If you or someone you know needs help, you can go to their drop in center for services. Looking to be trained? They offer a free class on the first Monday of every month. Also, consider having Dr. Punch come to your school, business, church, or anywhere for a class and to distribute kits!

Learn further information about their sights and offerings here.

THIS ARTICLE INVOLVES COMMERCIAL CONTENT SPONSORED BY THE T. THE PRODUCTS AND SERVICES FEATURED APPEAR AS PAID ADVERTISING. FOR MORE INFORMATION, EMAIL US AT SMSL@KSDK.COM.

 

By Mary Caltrider, News 5

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