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Inspiring individuals to reclaim and enrich their
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Aloha Chair and Councilmembers,
Kea au, Hawaii 96749 '- P: (808) 969-9994 t
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My name is Dr. Hannah Kalama Preston -Pita, and I am writing toda�+�rot only as
F: (808)969-7570
a lifelong advocate and mother, but also as the CEO of the Big Island Substance
Abuse Council (BISAC) and the lead of the Hawai'i Island Fentanyl Task Force.
Hilo Outpatient Treatment I've worked in the field of addiction and recovery for nearly 20 years, and I've
297 Waianuenue Avenue seen firsthand how critical timely interventions can be in saving lives and
Hilo, Hawai'i 96720 restoring families.
P: (808) 935-4927
F: (808) 934-8067 I'm writing in strong support of Bill 71, which would require bars in Hawaii
County to maintain naloxone on -site. This small action has the power to save
countless lives. Naloxone is a safe, fast -acting medication that reverses opioid
Board of Directors overdoses giving people another chance, and often, their only chance.
Chief Executive Officer
Hannah Preston -Pita Over the years, I've witnessed individuals survive an overdose, go through
President recovery, and eventually thrive in their roles as parents, workers, and community
Vanessa Carlson leaders.. That path only became possible because someone had naloxone nearby.
Naloxone doesn't promote drug use it promotes life, healing, and the belief that
Vice President
Catherine Kamau every person is worth saving.
Finance Chair While many individuals struggling with addiction may benefit from a higher level
David De Luz Jr. of care, we know that recovery begins with meeting people where they are. That
secretary includes ensuring naloxone is readily available in places where overdoses are
Sharri Thornton likely to occur such as bars, public restrooms, and homes. It's a critical step in
Members showing that we value every life and are committed to turning moments of crisis
Dr. Lissandra Baidan-Jenkins into opportunities for healing. Equipping bars with naloxone is no different than
David eishaw equipping them with AEDs for heart attacks.
Ross Wilson
It's about being prepared, responsive, and compassionate. I deeply appreciate
Councilmember Hustace for introducing this bill, and I urge the full Council to
support it. Let's take this stand together because every life is worth saving, and
every breath is worth fighting for.
Sincerely,
annah Preston -Pita, Psy,D. Ed, D., CSAC, NCTTP n
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