San Mateo County is taking its overdose response to the sidewalk, rolling out bright, newspaper-box-sized dispensers stocked with free naloxone at community hubs across the county. The Overdose Prevention Coalition launched the effort on Wednesday, debuting the first Naloxone Stand Box at Allcove San Mateo, the county's youth wellness center. Host organizations get the units at no cost, and members of the public can walk up and grab reversal medication without needing an appointment, prescription, or conversation at a pharmacy counter. County leaders also plan to install naloxone vending machines in several mental health clinics and keep targeting transit hubs and outreach events for people experiencing homelessness.
What the stand boxes do
In a press release via the County of San Mateo, officials describe the Naloxone Stand Box (NSB) as a newspaper-box-sized unit that can hold up to 74 boxes of naloxone. Organizations willing to host and restock a unit can get one at no charge. The county notes that naloxone nasal spray is safe, easy to use, and can reverse an opioid overdose within two to three minutes. Step-by-step instructions will be posted right on each box so that someone with no medical training can still act in an emergency.
Where you’ll see them first
San Mateo County Health reports that the coalition celebrated the first NSB installation at Allcove San Mateo in December. In January, partners followed up with a distribution at the Sequoia SamTrans station, handing out more than 72 boxes of naloxone, fentanyl test strips, and overdose-prevention materials. The coalition also plans to install naloxone vending machines in eight county mental health clinics to widen access to reversal medication beyond standard clinic hours and appointments.
Local data and officials' reasoning
County of San Mateo data show 54 opioid-related overdose deaths and 121 opioid-related emergency department visits in 2024, including 13 visits among 20–24-year-olds. Those numbers were part of the county’s public announcement about the program. "Beyond expanding access to lifesaving medication, the Coalition is an important and necessary step in reducing the stigma associated with substance-use disorders," Coalition Chair Ronni Brown said in the county statement.
How to host a box or find naloxone
Local organizations that can securely house and restock an NSB can apply via the county's online form, available through Microsoft Forms at this application. Youth and family resources, including mental health support, are available at Allcove San Mateo, and media or partner inquiries can be directed to Audrey Davis at 650-586-2162 or [email protected].
