Streetworks Needle Exchange

Streetworks Needle Exchange is a community-based HIV/AIDS prevention program which targets street-involved injection drug users and sex trade workers. It is a a collaborative program which is jointly governed by HIV Edmonton, the Boyle McCauley Health Centre, the Boyle Street Co-op, Capital Health, the Alberta Alchohol and Drug Commission, Catholic Social Services, the University of Alberta Northern HIV Clinic, and the Edmonton Police Service.

Streetworks has has six fixed daytime exchange sites, one of which is located at the Boyle McCauley Health Centre. In addition, the program has a van which operates six evenings each week, and staff members go out on foot to perform outreach during the day.

Philosophy:

Harm reduction is the atempt to assist people in their given practices and lifestyle realities. It stems from the realization that drug use and other high-risk behaviours are ingrained in society. By providing the resources such as tools and education, individuals can reduce the harm they do to themselves and others.

Services:

Access to clean equipment is essential to lessen the spread of infections. Therefore, Streetworks provides clean needles (one for one exchange), alcohol wipes, clean water, condoms, lubrication, vitamins, and first aid supplies if necessary.

In addition, Streetworks provides nursing services, a business program to help local businesses keep their establishments safer and healthier, an advocacy program called Natural Helpers, health education, and a prison program to assist individuals within the criminal justice system to remain safer and healthier.

Objectives:

• Increase the knowledge and understanding of hepatitis B, hepatatis C, HIV, and other health issues that affect the target population.
• Assist the target population in maintaining and improving their own health.
• Provide service users with the skills, knowledge, resources, and support needed to remain safer and healthier.
• Assist and act as advocates to improve accessibility to supports and services as needed.
• Create trusting relationships with members of the target group and give positive feedback in order to build self-worth.
• Increase the knowledge and understanding among organizations, community agencies, and individuals about the target population and harm reduction practices.

Contact Information

Streetworks: Boyle McCauley Site
10628 - 96 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5H 2J2
phone: (780) 422-7333 ext. 226
fax: (780) 422-7343
Streetworks Website