About Us
At Avenue B Harm Reduction, we are dedicated to fostering a healthier, safer community by providing comprehensive support, education, and resources to individuals impacted by or at risk of HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis C (HepC), and sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections (STBBIs). Our mission is grounded in the principles of harm reduction, compassion, and collaboration.
Ongoing Programs
- Community Education: We partner with educational institutions, community groups, and social service agencies to deliver workshops and resources on HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis C, STBBIs, and harm reduction strategies.
- Naloxone Training: We offer life-saving naloxone training for both individuals and organizations, equipping participants with the knowledge and skills to prevent opioid overdose deaths.
- Support Services: We offer tailored assistance to individuals living with or at risk of HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis C, and/or STBBIs, connecting them with the care and resources they need.
- Needle Distribution Services (NDS): Our needle exchange program helps reduce the incidence of HIV/AIDS, HepatitisC, and STBBIs by providing safe supplies and fostering safer practices.
- Sex Trade Action Committee (STAC): We advocate for and support individuals in the sex trade by addressing their unique challenges and promoting safety and well-being.
- Street Outreach: Our team actively engages with the community in Waterloo Village, offering resources, support, and harm reduction tools to those who need them.
- Needle Disposal: In partnership with local organizations, we install and maintain street-level needle disposal boxes to improve public safety and cleanliness.
- On-Site Healthcare: Our on-site Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) provides wound care and basic nursing support to meet immediate healthcare needs.
- Drug Testing Services: We utilize a spectrometer machine for drug testing, allowing individuals to better understand the composition of substances and make informed choices.
Other Initiatives
- Peer Health Navigators: Through funding from PHAC’s Harm Reduction Fund, our three-year project trains and supports Peer Health Navigators who work directly with substance users, offering guidance and advocacy to improve their health outcomes. This initiative is making a meaningful impact in our community and has been funded until 2027.
At Avenue B, we believe in meeting people where they are, empowering them with the tools and knowledge to make informed choices, and creating an inclusive, non-judgmental environment for all. Together, with the support of our community partners, we strive to reduce harm, promote health, and foster hope.
Mission
To use harm reduction to reduce the incidence of HIV, Hep C, and sexually transmitted and blood infections in Saint John.
Vision
A compassionate community that promotes diversity and inclusion by embracing harm reduction as an evidence-based strategy that saves lives and creates a safer community.
Values
- Compassion
- Harm Reduction
- Collaboration
- Education