NEEDLE EXCHANGE WORKS

Re 'Sharply Divided' (Oct. 6): about the needle exchange program. The
debate has largely been resolved--we've had more than a decade of
peaceful coexistence between programs and communities, gained the
support of political leaders and community boards in every borough
except Staten Island, and seen HIV rates among drug injectors plummet by 75%.

Needle exchange works, and improves community health by helping
people get into drug treatment, testing for HIV and hepatitis C,
providing free vaccinations, and offering education and tools to
prevent overdose.

The real story is how gentrification threatens public health by
displacing poor people and pushing vulnerable groups underground.

- --Daniel Raymond, policy director

Harm Reduction Coalition