OnPoint NYC

OnPoint NYC

Type	Non-profit organization
Headquarters	New York City, New York, United States
Services	Harm reduction, public health
Website	onpointnyc.org

OnPoint NYC is a non-profit organization based in New York City that focuses on harm reduction and public health services. It is known for operating the first officially sanctioned Overdose Prevention Centers (OPCs) in the United States, which aim to reduce the harm associated with drug use and prevent overdose deaths.

History

OnPoint NYC was established to address the growing opioid crisis and the need for innovative solutions to reduce drug-related harm. The organization emerged from the merger of two long-standing harm reduction programs in New York City: Washington Heights CORNER Project and New York Harm Reduction Educators. These programs have been providing syringe exchange and other harm reduction services for decades.

In November 2021, OnPoint NYC opened the first two OPCs in the United States, located in East Harlem and Washington Heights. These centers provide a safe and supervised environment for individuals to use pre-obtained drugs, with medical staff on hand to intervene in case of an overdose.

Services

OnPoint NYC offers a range of services aimed at reducing the harm associated with drug use and improving public health outcomes. These services include:

• Syringe exchange programs: Providing clean syringes to reduce the spread of infectious diseases such as HIV and Hepatitis C.
• Overdose prevention: Offering training and distribution of naloxone, a medication that can reverse opioid overdoses.
• Safe consumption spaces: Supervised environments where individuals can use drugs safely, with immediate access to medical care if needed.
• Health and social services: Connecting clients with healthcare, housing, and social support services.
• Education and advocacy: Promoting harm reduction principles and advocating for policy changes to support public health.

Impact

The establishment of OnPoint NYC's OPCs has been a significant development in the field of harm reduction in the United States. These centers have been shown to reduce overdose deaths, decrease public drug use, and connect individuals with health and social services. The success of OnPoint NYC's model has sparked discussions about expanding similar services in other cities across the country.

Controversies

While OnPoint NYC's OPCs have been praised for their innovative approach to harm reduction, they have also faced criticism and legal challenges. Opponents argue that these centers may encourage drug use and pose legal issues under federal law. However, supporters contend that the centers save lives and provide critical health services to marginalized populations.

Also see

• Harm reduction
• Opioid epidemic in the United States
• Safe injection site
• Public health

References

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