ACCKWA’s Harm Reduction department provides programs and services to reduce the risk of HIV/HCV transmission among people who use drugs. Our services embrace harm reduction philosophy. Harm reduction is “any program or policy designed to reduce drug-related harm without requiring the cessation of drug use” (CAMH). Our services are not in opposition to treatment or abstinence programming; we offer options to bridge the gaps in the continuum of care, recognizing that people who use drugs are at an elevated risk for HIV and hepatitis C infection. Harm reduction meets people where they’re at, emphasizes their autonomy, and trusts them as experts in their own experience.
Help us create Harm Reduction kits at ACCKWA!
Contact the Peer Educator to find out how you can help.
Our free and confidential harm reduction services:
- Safepoint needle syringe program at our main office
- Safepoint needle syringe programs at our satellite sites: The Cambridge Self Help Food Bank and St John’s Kitchen
- We provide a non-judgmental atmosphere where people can get new safer injection/inhalation supplies and return their used equipment
- Delivery of safer injection supplies
- Workshops about HIV, harm reduction, and safer substance use.
Injection supplies are also accessible through Region of Waterloo Public Health and the Sanguen Community Health Van
If you find a needle:
If you find a needle, contact Region of Waterloo Bylaw at (519) 575-4591. If you are comfortable disposing of the needle yourself, you can find the proper steps here.
For more information on needle exchange and harm reduction programs:
Needle Exchange FAQ (Ontario Harm Reduction Distribution Program)