The Baltimore City Council hearing on the FY2026 budget highlighted a remarkable achievement in community outreach by the Baltimore City Fire Department (BCFD). During the session, officials praised the department's fire emergency community outreach program, which has significantly exceeded its goals in distributing Narcan kits to combat opioid overdoses.

With only two sworn staff members dedicated to this initiative, the BCFD has managed to leave behind an impressive 15,290 Narcan kits, nearly double the initial target. This proactive approach not only addresses the immediate needs of individuals at risk of overdose but also contributes to a reported 29% reduction in emergency calls related to overdoses. The success of this program underscores the importance of community engagement and resource distribution in public health efforts.

Council members expressed curiosity about the budget implications of this success, particularly since the Narcan is provided by the state as part of an opioid response program. The BCFD clarified that while the Narcan distribution is funded externally, the broader outreach efforts also include distributing food, water, and other essential resources, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to community health.

The discussion emphasized the critical role of building rapport with individuals in crisis, as the outreach team not only provides immediate resources but also facilitates connections to treatment options. This holistic strategy aims to address the root causes of addiction and support individuals on their path to recovery.

As the city continues to navigate the challenges of opioid addiction, the BCFD's outreach program stands as a model for effective community intervention, showcasing the impact of dedicated service and innovative public health strategies.