Full Breakdown
Indianapolis Nonprofit Launches CHARIOT Texting Service to Combat Drug Overdoses
1/10/2026, 7:15:40 AM
Overview of the CHARIOT Initiative
In an effort to address the rising number of drug overdoses in Indianapolis, Overdose Lifeline, a local nonprofit, has implemented CHARIOT, an anonymous texting service designed to provide real-time alerts about dangerous drug supplies. This initiative aims to inform users about potential risks, such as methamphetamine laced with fentanyl, and to promote harm reduction strategies.
Background on Drug Overdoses in Indianapolis
The opioid crisis has significantly impacted Marion County, where approximately 1,300 individuals visited emergency rooms for drug overdoses in 2025, alongside 562 reported overdose deaths by the Indiana Department of Health. The founder of Overdose Lifeline, Justin Phillips, has a personal connection to this issue, having lost her son to a heroin overdose in 2013. In response, she advocated for Aaron’s Law, which expanded access to naloxone, a medication that can reverse opioid overdoses.
Functionality of the CHARIOT Service
The CHARIOT service sends out weekly alerts when Overdose Lifeline receives information about drug seizures or dangerous batches of drugs. Users can also report incidents anonymously, creating a two-way communication channel. Nearly 500 individuals are currently enrolled in the service, which not only disseminates information but also encourages users to share warnings about drug safety.
Community Engagement and Harm Reduction
Overdose Lifeline actively engages with the community by distributing naloxone and fentanyl test strips at pop-up events. These efforts are part of a broader harm reduction strategy aimed at minimizing the dangers associated with drug use. Breanna Hicks, a director at Overdose Lifeline, emphasized the importance of meeting individuals where they are, stating, “Harm reduction meets people where they are. It’s a way to keep people safe and a segue into treatment.”
Criticism and Personal Accounts
Despite the positive impact of the CHARIOT service, there are personal stories that highlight the ongoing challenges of drug use. P’lare Sanders, who lost her best friend to an overdose, expressed regret about not having naloxone available at the time. She noted, “I wish I would’ve had that training, because maybe my friend would still be here.” This sentiment underscores the critical need for education and resources in the community.
Official Statements & Responses
Justin Phillips remarked on the importance of addressing the stigma surrounding drug use, stating, “Shame and stigma are huge. The text alerts are another way to address barriers that prevent people from getting help.” She believes that had her son been aware of drug testing and naloxone, it could have led to a different outcome.
What's Next for CHARIOT
As the CHARIOT service continues to grow, Overdose Lifeline plans to expand its outreach efforts and enhance community education regarding drug safety and harm reduction strategies. Individuals interested in receiving alerts can sign up by texting “CHARIOT” to 888-450-3598, while those in need of naloxone can order it directly from Overdose Lifeline.
