Dear john,

Today, I joined People with Ideas of Love, Liberty, Acceptance, and Respect (PILLAR) in unveiling a new harm reduction vending machine in Laredo. The vending machine was made possible by $1,196,880 in federal funding for PILLAR’s Project Positive Affirmation at Work (PAW).

Located at Laredo’s Fire Station #3, Project PAW’s harm reduction vending machine will offer 24/7 access to life-saving resources free of charge for individuals who are engaging in substance abuse or at risk of substance abuse. This includes Narcan, hygiene kits, and fentanyl drug testing kits. The vending machine has the potential to help approximately 500 individuals.

Last year, I helped secure $1,196,880 in federal funding for PILLAR’s Project PAW to enhance overdose and prevention services. We’re seeing the benefit of that today. Thank you to PILLAR Co-Founders Arturo Diaz, Jr., and Manuel Sanchez for working with me to deliver for Laredo.