Everyone needs a Starting Point
That’s where we come in.
What is Harm Reduction?
Harm Reduction is a set of practical strategies and ideas aimed at reducing negative consequences associated with drug use. Harm Reduction is also a movement for social justice built on a belief in, and respect for, the rights of people who use drugs.
Why do we need harm reduction in our community?
Fentanyl is contaminating drug supplies around the world and is 50 times stronger than heroin. The opioid crisis was intensified by the introduction of fentanyl into recreational drugs in 2012, and deaths soared during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020-2021.
That’s just one of the most dangerous drugs.
Harm reduction focuses on improving the lives of individuals and communities by reducing the harm and stigma associated with drug use. Our goal at Starting Point is to decrease the number of deaths due to drug use, overdosing, addiction, sexually transmitted infections, and mental health illnesses.
How do we do that?
We offer mobile delivery of:
- syringes
- sterile injection supplies
- naloxone
- wound care
- assorted health and hygiene products
We also provide:
- peer counseling
- consultations
- referrals for
- substance abuse
- mental health illness
- overdose
- sexually transmitted infections
“I see harm reduction as a way of engaging people as part of that path to recovery.”
Paul R. Ehrlich