THERE ARE MORE SERVICES THAN JUST NEEDLE EXCHANGE

Re: 'Discarded drug needles will be collected in boxes' (Daily News, June
3).

The main point behind harm reduction initiatives such as the needle
exchange is the availability of syringes for intravenous drug use.

This is what stops the spread of disease.

We encourage clients to return syringes but we will always provide
syringes to those who have none to return.

Our organization has worked with the city and we applaud efforts to
locate disposal boxes in high traffic areas. Down the road, it is
important that a broader approach to hazardous sharps also include
disposal sites in other city facilities, much like the format B.C.
Ferries uses in ship washrooms.

To remind readers, the Street Outreach Health Clinic provides other
important services such as HIV, HCV and sexually transmitted disease
testing, health information and referral and mental health and
addiction support.

The needle exchange is but one component of our broader health focus
that is challenged by overriding social conditions of poverty,
homelessness and addictions.

Finally, we provide a safe place for individuals to connect to other
supportive community resources.

Gordon Cote, director, NARSF Programs and CVI Harm Reduction
Programs

Editor's note: The Nanaimo Needle Exchange reported that they have a
return rate of used needles between 97% and 102%. In the article
mentioned above, we provided an average return rate of 100%.