Riverdale Merchants Received Naloxone Training

Local business owners learned how to use life-saving opioid reversal kits to address potential overdose emergencies.

Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Substance Abuse

Bold vector editorial illustration of a medical nasal spray device on a wooden surface, representing community health and safety training. — The Kingsbridge-Riverdale-Van Cortlandt Development Corporation is equipping local Riverdale business owners with training on administering naloxone to address potential overdose emergencies. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Should local businesses be trained and equipped to respond to opioid overdoses?

The Kingsbridge-Riverdale-Van Cortlandt Development Corporation hosted a naloxone training session for local merchants at Home BX Steakhouse. Led by trainer Lillian Neuman, the session provided instruction on administering nasal sprays to help prevent fatal opioid overdose events.

Why it matters

The initiative aims to equip local storefronts with the knowledge and tools necessary to respond effectively to medical emergencies. This training helps ensure business owners feel prepared to handle potential overdoses while remaining protected under state laws.

Naloxone nasal spray is effective for 30 to 90 minutes, with instructions to wait 2 to 3 minutes before administering a second dose. Lillian Neuman, a state-registered trainer since 2015, has trained 7,000 people over her 30-year career.

The players

Lillian Neuman

She is a state-registered trainer who has dedicated 30 years to helping others and has trained 7,000 people.

Kingsbridge-Riverdale-Van Cortlandt Development Corporation

This organization serves the Bronx area by supporting local economic development and community health initiatives.

The details

During the training at 224 W. 238th St., participants learned to administer naloxone by peeling the package, placing the device tip, and plunging it. Instruction also emphasized rolling patients onto their side after administration to prevent complications from vomiting.

Lillian Neuman became a state-registered trainer in 2015.
Merchants attended the naloxone training session on September 22, 2026.

Health Landscape

This training follows the framework established by New York state's 911 Good Samaritan Law, which provides immunity from certain criminal charges when seeking emergency assistance. By integrating these legal protections into merchant education, the program aligns with broader state efforts to reduce overdose fatalities.

Participants gained the confidence to potentially save a life in their place of business, supported by laws that protect responders acting in good faith. These trained merchants are now better positioned to mitigate the risks associated with public opioid-related emergencies.

The takeaway

Naloxone administration is a simple but critical skill that business owners can employ to foster a safer neighborhood environment. Training programs serve as a vital link in connecting community members with the legal and medical protections available during an emergency.