Syringe exchange programs that were established decades ago to slow the spread of HIV are just as important now as they were then. Since the beginning of the HIV epidemic, HIV infections have spread rapidly through unprotected sex and injection drug use.
We know that sharing syringes and injection drug equipment makes it easier for HIV to be passed from one person to another. People who are: unsheltered, unstably housed, & use injection drugs are disproportionately at higher risk for HIV infection and have lower rates of viral suppression highlighting the need for innovative programs that reach the most marginalized members of our community. In response, The Aliveness Project is expanding HIV testing and syringe exchange services via our new Mobile van!
“Meeting people where they are at and building trust within the community are vital pillars we need to successfully combat this epidemic.” says Brad Bryan the Aliveness Outreach & Syringe exchange Manager.
Because of the growing number of people who inject drugs and local HIV outbreaks Aliveness has responded by expanding its services. With our new mobile van we are now out in the community providing new and safe injection supplies, Naloxone, needle disposal, free HIV testing, treatment referrals, and community support. As always, we do this by creating a safe and stigma free setting.
Mobile services include:
- Syringes exchange services.
- Naloxone kits and education.
- PrEP navigation services via THRIVE our free PrEP clinic.
- Used needle collection and disposal.
- Safer sex kit distribution.
- HIV and IDU risk reduction education.
- Free rapid HIV counseling, testing, and referrals.
- Linkage to HIV medical care and services.
- Referrals to treatment services, local resources, and more!
Questions?
Call (612) 822-7946 or email [email protected] for any questions regaurding our services.
