We assist clients with education on reducing harm related to preventable infectious diseases. By teaching healthier habits, we are able to reduce risk of community acquired infections. We also provide community and one on one Narcan trainings as a response to the nationwide opioid epidemic.
Program Coordinator:
Rachel Lafrinier, RN, PHN
Tel: (218) 850-9096
Email: Rachel.Lafrinier@whiteearth-nsn.gov
Harm Reduction Services:
We are a syringe access program (SAP) which is a public health initiative designed to provide individuals who use drugs access to sterile syringes and other ingestion equipment. Since our inception in 2014, our goal has been to reduce the transmission of blood borne diseases (such as HIV and Hepatitis C), decrease the risks associated with drug use, and connect individuals to appropriate healthcare services.
Key components of syringe access programs include:
1.Distribution of Sterile Syringes: Providing clean syringes to prevent sharing and reuse, which can spread infections.
2.Safe Disposal: Offering safe disposal for used syringes to reduce environmental hazards and public health risks.
3.Education: Providing education on safer drug use practices, overdose prevention, and holistic approaches to self-care that include practices to heal the mind, body, and spirit.
4.Health Services: Referral based program that connects individuals to healthcare services, treatment for substance use disorders, and mental health support.
5.Community Outreach: Engaging with communities to reduce stigma and promote health equity. We partner with other tribal programs to provide health education at community events to help others find their path to wellness.