About Us
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.
Our Values
compassion
We meet people with empathy, care, and respect, creating safer spaces for everyone.
Harm Reduction
We use evidence-based strategies that reduce risk, save lives, and support people without judgment.
Empowerment
We empower individuals to make informed choices and take control of their health and well-being.
collaboration
We work alongside peers, partners, and communities to
strengthen impact and build trust.
evidence & education
We promote learning, share knowledge, and use evidence-based practices to guide our work and advance community
health.
Mission
To improve health outcomes and reduce HIV, Hep C, and other STBBIs by meeting people where they are, delivering compassionate, nonjudgmental, evidence-based harm reduction services, and empowering individuals and communities through education and collaboration.
Vision
A safer, more connected community where evidence-based harm reduction, compassion, and empowerment save lives, strengthen belonging, and uphold dignity for all
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.