HFC expands student wellness initiative, adds Narcan dispensers
As part of HFC’s commitment to student health and wellness, the College hosted a public event March 26 to announce the addition of Narcan (naloxone) dispensers across the main campus and the East Campus. The dispensers will be located near Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs).
This initiative has been made possible through the dedicated efforts of the HFC student chapter of Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) and the Student Nursing Association (SNA). Their advocacy and commitment to student wellness have played a crucial role in bringing these vital resources to campus.
Narcan saves lives. HFC student and former PTK president Charles Brooks, who helped spearhead this initiative, pointed out that 120 Narcan packs had been handed out since the initiative was conceived, and 2 lives were known to have been saved. Countless lives nationwide have been saved since the introduction of Narcan, including that of one of the event's speakers.
Several leaders and students spoke at the event:
- HFC President Russ Kavalhuna
- HFC Vice President of Student Affairs Holly Diamond
- State Senator Sylvia Santana
- State Representative Alabas Farhat
- Wayne County Commissioner Sam Baydoun
- Pam Lynch, Executive Director of Harm-Reduction Michigan
- Dani Hourani (he/him), Director of Community Development, Team Wellness Center
- HFC student and former PTK president Charles Brooks
- HFC student Summer Brooks, PTK president and SNA member
- HFC student Ali Berry, captain of the PTK Research Team
- HFC student Abdulaziz Alkhalisi, member of the PTK Research Team
Raising awareness, providing resources
The wellness initiative, including the Narcan dispensers, underscores HFC’s proactive approach to health and safety, ensuring life-saving measures are readily available in emergency situations. Recognizing the importance of preparedness, HFC will offer training sessions throughout the year on CPR, AED use, and Narcan administration. These training sessions will be available to students, faculty, and staff, equipping the campus community with the knowledge and confidence to act swiftly in critical moments.
In addition to emergency response training, HFC is committed to raising awareness and providing educational resources surrounding addiction and substance use disorders. The College will offer information on addiction prevention and recovery, fostering a supportive environment. HFC will connect students with external organizations specializing in addiction treatment, mental wellness, and other support services, ensuring that those in need have access to comprehensive care beyond campus resources.
HFC also provides licensed professional counselors to assist students in managing stress and personal challenges that may arise during their academic journey. These counseling services are designed to provide emotional support and guidance to help students navigate the pressures of college life.
Complementing these efforts, HFC continues to prioritize student wellness by offering free feminine hygiene products in campus restrooms. This effort aligns with the College’s dedication to addressing essential health needs and promoting dignity and accessibility for all students.
“Through these initiatives, HFC reaffirms its dedication to fostering a safe, informed, and supportive environment where students can thrive both academically and personally,” said HFC Vice President of Student Affairs Holly Diamond. “I want to thank the students for their leadership in bringing this initiative to fruition. I also want to thank Mr. Hourani for his unwavering dedication and collaboration in working with HFC on this project. And I want to thank Pam Lynch from Harm Reduction-Michigan for donating the Narcan dispensers for every public building on the main campus and the East Campus. They have been great partners throughout this initiative.”
For more information on training sessions, wellness resources, or support services, contact the HFC Office of Student Affairs at 313-845-9610 or vpsainfo@hfcc.edu.