According to Harm Reduction International,
“Harm reduction refers to policies, programs and practices that aim to minimize the negative health, social and legal impacts associated with drug use, drug policies and drug laws.
Harm reduction is grounded in justice and human rights. It focuses on positive change and on working with people without judgement, coercion, discrimination, or requiring that people stop using drugs as a precondition of support.”
Harm reduction is:
- Giving people what they need to stay alive and healthier
- A grassroots movement incorporated in public health strategies
- Science based and evidence proven
- Encouraging drug use / causing more drug use
- An anything goes method
- A single solution that can fix everything
To learn more about harm reduction work, check out our valued partners at North Valley Harm Reduction Coalition, https://nvhrc.org/
In August 2019, the Butte-Glenn Medical Society Board of Directors approved by majority vote to support efforts to fund a Syringe Services Program. The letter that was shared during the public comment phase of the program's application period is here:
https://www.bgmsonline.org/site/assets/files/1103/letter_for_northern_valley_harm_reducation_coalition.pdf