Nashville's ONEbox Narcan Initiative

The ONEbox Narcan initiative is making a life-saving impact across Nashville by increasing access to opioid reversal medication in our community's most vital spaces. What began as a conversation between community leaders quickly grew into a citywide movement, bringing together city government, public health advocates, local businesses, and schools to address the opioid crisis head-on.

How It Started

The initiative took root when Erin Evans, Chair of the Health and Public Safety Committee for Metro Council, facilitated an introduction between the Mayor's Office of Nightlife Director, Benton McDonough and key partners, Trevor Henderson and Sgt. Mike Hotz. At the time, we faced significant challenges installing ONEbox units on Broadway, Nashville's busiest entertainment corridor.

Early Success and Growing Demand

Initial momentum came through the TEMPO program, launched by Gibson Guitar, which provided the first 15 ONEbox units. However, there was uncertainty about the best locations for installation and how to connect with decision-makers in the hospitality sector. With Kelly Kaplan newly onboard at the Office of Nightlife, we leveraged our industry contacts, and requests for ONEbox installations began pouring in. In just one week, we installed all 15 Gibson Gives boxes-a dramatic shift from zero installations the previous year.

As demand outpaced supply, we sought additional funding and secured $20,000 form the Public Health Committee, ensuring the continued expansion of the program.

Expanding to Metro Nashville School District

Recognizing the importance of protecting students and staff, we partnered with Metro Nashville Public Schools to install ONEbox units in all 137 schools across the district. The first box was installed at McGavock High School on July 22, marking a significant milestone in our mission to make Narcan accessible wherever it's needed most.

Our Commitment

The ONEbox Narcan initiative is dedicated to saving lives by breaking down barriers to overdose reversal medication. Through collaboration with public officials, local organizations, and the hospitality industry, we are building a safer, more prepared Nashville-one box at a time. If your business or venue would like to join this important initiative and have a ONEbox kit installed, please contact Kelly Kaplan at [email protected].