With overdose rates in Martinsville and Henry County far exceeding the state average, The Harvest Foundation is investing $444,355 over three years to expand harm reduction services through the Virginia Harm Reduction Coalition (VHRC).
VHRC, which uses a peer outreach model, offers services that include opioid overdose reversal using naloxone, testing and treatment navigation for hepatitis C and HIV, mental and sexual health services, and referrals to substance use treatment programs.
“We must all be aware of the health challenges associated with substance use,” said Dr. Sandy Strayer, program officer at The Harvest Foundation. “Preventing the spread of disease and supporting pathways to recovery is part of our work to build a community where everyone can thrive and have hope for their futures and the future of Martinsville-Henry County.”
The grant will allow VHRC to launch a mail-based distribution program to reach rural residents with naloxone, fentanyl test strips, sterile supplies, and educational materials. It will also expand access to testing, treatment navigation, and overdose prevention services.
“Thanks to the generous support of the Harvest Foundation, VA Harm Reduction Coalition will be able to expand our outreach and education efforts into rural communities where access to infectious disease prevention and care is often limited,” said Ariel Johnson, director of operations for VHRC’s West Piedmont branch.
“Our work centers around one core belief: the opposite of addiction is connection. While many organizations require abstinence before offering support, we meet people where they are — without judgment,” Johnson said. “This funding strengthens our ability to build trust, share life-saving resources, and walk alongside those who use drugs as they navigate their paths toward health and dignity.”
VHRC serves about 1,500 clients annually across Southwest Virginia, including nearly 400 in the West Piedmont area, which includes Martinsville and Henry County.
According to the Virginia Department of Health (VDH), Martinsville reported 105 fatal overdoses per 100,000 residents in 2023, and Henry County reported 60 per 100,000—both far above the statewide average of 29. That same year, the area’s HIV incidence rate was 30 per 100,000 residents, compared to the state average of 10.
“This award from the Harvest Foundation will truly save lives,” said VHRC Executive Director Danny Clawson. “As funding for substance use and recovery services becomes increasingly unreliable, partnerships with local foundations that are grounded in the community are essential for continued growth.
“While other service organizations are closing offices and laying off staff, The Harvest Foundation is helping to secure the future of VHRC and ensure that our life-saving resources remain available in our community for years to come.”
To learn more about VHRC’s work, visit www.carrynaloxone.org.
