Prevention and Support Resources for Wards 7 & 8
There comes a time when everyone needs a shoulder to lean on, someone to help them stand back up. In Wards 7 and 8 of Washington, DC, our communities have been hit especially hard by the rising tide of drug abuse. Over the past few years, the presence of fentanyl, a synthetic opioid up to 100 times more potent than morphine, has drastically worsened the crisis.
Fentanyl is especially dangerous because it is often mixed into common street drugs without users knowing, dramatically increasing the risk of overdose. According to the D.C. Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, there were 518 opioid-related deaths in the District in 2023 alone, with Wards 7 and 8 experiencing 73 and 80 deaths respectively, totaling 153 deaths. This accounts for approximately 29.5% of the city's total opioid-related deaths. These aren’t just numbers; they’re friends, neighbors, and family members.
At TransformersDC, we are committed to breaking the cycle. Our mission is to raise awareness, educate the community, and provide real, accessible resources to combat the dangers of fentanyl and other harmful substances. Our team is made up of leaders who were born and raised right here in Wards 7 and 8. We understand what drives people toward drug use, how deeply it affects families, and most importantly, how to help those who have been impacted.
Seeking help can be hard. But you are not alone. We’re here to support our youth every step of the way, offering guidance, connection, and tools to build a brighter future.
Wards 7 & 8 Prevention Center Information
Address: 3939 Benning Road NE, Washington, DC 20019
Phone Number: (202) 388-3001
Hours: Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
DC Access Helpline: 1-800-793-4357
National Helpline: 1-800-662-4357
Recognizing the Signs of an Overdose
Knowing the signs of an overdose can save a life. With fentanyl being so potent, even a small amount can lead to a medical emergency within minutes. Whether you're looking out for a friend, a loved one, or a neighbor, being able to recognize the symptoms of an overdose is one of the most important tools you can have.
Cold, Clammy Skin
The person’s skin may feel cold to the touch and unusually damp or sweaty, this is often one of the first signs the body is starting to shut down.
Blue Lips or Skin (Cyanosis)
Lack of oxygen can cause the lips, fingertips, or skin to take on a bluish color, signaling that the brain and organs aren’t getting enough oxygen.
Slowed / Halted Breathing (Respiratory Failure)
Breathing may become extremely slow or stop completely. You may notice shallow breaths, gasping, or long pauses between breaths.
Unconsciousness or Coma
A person experiencing an overdose may not be responsive to shouting or touch. They could slip into unconsciousness or even fall into a coma if left untreated.
Death (If Untreated)
Without immediate help, a fentanyl overdose can lead to death, often within minutes. This is why carrying and knowing how to use NARCAN (naloxone) is so critical.
Naloxone (Narcan): The Overdose Antidote
Narcan, also known by its generic name naloxone, is a life-saving medication designed to rapidly reverse opioid overdoses, including those caused by fentanyl. It works by binding to the same receptors in the brain that opioids attach to, effectively “kicking” the drug off and stopping its effects on breathing and heart rate. It's safe, easy to use, and has no effect on someone who hasn’t taken opioids, which means you can use it without fear of causing harm. For more information on naloxone, visit here.
How it works:
Narcan quickly restores normal breathing in a person whose breathing has slowed or stopped due to an opioid overdose. It usually comes in a nasal spray form and begins working within 2–3 minutes. Multiple doses may be needed depending on the strength of the overdose.
Where to get it in Wards 7 & 8:
There's no need for a prescription, ID, or insurance to get Narcan in D.C., and even better, it's completely free. To find Narcan near you or have it delivered directly to your home, just text “LiveLongDC” to 888-811.
How to Administer Narcan
If you suspect someone is overdosing, follow these steps:
- Check for signs of overdose: Look for unresponsiveness, slow or stopped breathing, blue lips or skin, or gurgling/snoring sounds.
- Call 911 immediately: Time is critical. Inform the dispatcher know that someone is unresponsive and you suspect an overdose. DC’s Good Samaritan law protects you when calling for help.
- Administer Narcan: (1)Peel back the packaging to remove the device. (2)Hold the Narcan nasal spray with your thumb on the bottom and your first and middle fingers on either side of the nozzle. (3)Tilt the person’s head back and insert the tip of the nozzle into one nostril. (4)Firmly press the plunger to release the dose.
- Wait and monitor: Stay with the person. Narcan typically works within 2–3 minutes. If they don’t respond or breathing hasn’t improved, give another dose after 2–3 minutes in the other nostril.
- Perform rescue breathing or CPR if needed: If the person is not breathing or has no pulse, perform rescue breathing or CPR until help arrives.
- Stay until help arrives: Even if they wake up, Narcan wears off after 30–90 minutes, and the overdose symptoms can return. Emergency services should always check on the person.
Get More Info Here!
Join us as we help our youth make safe decisions, and educate them about the dangers of opioid use, and equip them with strategies for prevention!