Throughout our 50-year history, Federation of Organizations has developed innovative, cost-effective programs to address myriad needs in our community. When the opioid epidemic exploded in our region, Federation took several important actions.  

This included achieving certification as an Opioid Overdose Prevention Provider (OOPP) in 2020 from the New York State Department of Health. This designation allows Federation to provide naloxone (Narcan) training to staff, clients, community members and local businesses. 

Federation began hosting community opioid awareness and naloxone training events last year. 

This year, through two Town of Brookhaven grants, we have entered into a partnership with the town to provide opioid education, naloxone training and free Narcan emergency kits to various businesses. 

“We have expanded beyond high-risk groups to target all types of businesses, as opioid overdoses can happen anywhere,” said Carissa Romano, Clinical Director for the OOPP program. “We provide them with educational materials about substance use and offer free training and a Narcan box, which – as with an AED – can be kept at the business to be used by a trained individual to revive someone who is suffering from an overdose.” 

Through two New York City grants, the Criminal Justice in NYC Opioid Overdose Prevention Program and General Opioid Overdose Prevention Program in Queens/Rockaway, Federation will begin naloxone training and dispensing to individuals in July. 

The OOPP program is part of our multi-pronged approach to addressing the opioid crisis. Federation also went through the rigorous certification process to launch an OASAS (New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports) Certified Outpatient Treatment Program. Our OASAS Clinic, which opened in Copiague in January 2021, provides evidence-based services to help adults, children and adolescents who are struggling with addiction to gain support and maintain sobriety.