A clean-injection kit and syringe; these kits and clean syringes help prevent overdoses and the transmission of HIV and hepatitis C.
What is harm reduction?
Harm reduction is a treatment approach that Housing Works uses to encourage our clients to reduce the harm that they may do to themselves or others through substance use and/or unsafe sexual practices. Harm Reduction focuses on practical tools—for example, the constant and regular use of new syringes and male and/or female condoms—as well as emotional ones: We empower our clients to understand the full impact of their actions on their loved ones and their community.
An example of a Housing Works’ harm reduction program is our one-on-one and group sessions that teach safer injection practices—something as simple as using a new syringe can prevent transmission of HIV, Hepatitis C and reduce tissue damage. We also have a range of support groups and workshops, such as “Survival Skills,” which looks at safer sex practices, and “New Methods,” which delves into opioid treatment alternatives.
Harm reduction—in contrast to treatment approaches that demand dramatic and unrealistic behavioral shifts—gives our clients the knowledge they need to face the often daunting challenges of living with HIV.
Nyela’s Journey
Nyela’s* journey began a rough one: homeless, actively using drugs, and in a physically abusive relationship. But there she stood at our Harm Reduction Place (HRP), eager to try to resolve her issues—our very own Nyela.
Nyela’s initial run with HRP was through the Healthy Lifestyles Program. In this program she began to reflect upon herself and take steps to change her situation. Learning through the loving support of HRP staff and peers, she started to build a better relationship with herself and those around her. Her experiences at the HRP lifted her spirits, which in turn enabled her to participate in other services available throughout Housing Works.
Once HRP built her confidence, Nyela attempted, for a third time, to enroll in our Second Life Job Training Program. She succeeded and was among the top graduates in her class. She has found a new peace and feels a sense of accomplishment within herself. Lastly, Nyela has elevated confidence, newfound happiness and hope for the future.
Coming to the HRP gave Nyela hope and sparked a vision for change in her life. Though her plans to achieve this goal may have seemed unclear at the time, she knew that she was not turning back. An opportunity is what she needed, an option is what she had, and obligation is what pushed her to take action. The initiative was taken.
*Nyela is Swahili for she who perseveres.
HIV+ And Need Help?
If you are HIV+ and looking for free harm reduction services and support, sign up here
The Harm Reduction Place
- The Harm Reduction Place
- 212-966-0466 x1173
Healthy lifestyles
In 2008, Housing Works made big strides in reinvigorating the Harm Reduction Place’s Healthy Lifestyles program. Healthy Lifestyles is a six-week life skills class, with sessions on coping and communication, self-esteem, budgeting, hygiene, HIV health, acupuncture, meditation, nutrition and cooking.
Syringe exchange
The Syringe Exchange Program is one of the first services that many Housing Works clients take advantage of. Our syringe exchange services are offered at four sites: three are at the Adult Day Health Center programs and one at the Harm Reduction Place.
We are always striving to serve the harder-to-reach populations; recently we have had success engaging hormone users. During Fiscal Year 2007-2008, we distributed 8,500 syringes and collected over 7,000 helping to safely dispose of used syringes.
Overdose prevention
Housing Works is a pioneer in the use of the opioid-addiction treatment buprenorphine, which, for some people, is an effective alternative to methadone.
