Syringe program approved

The Northern Valley Harm Reduction Coalition is now able to launch syringe access services in Chico. The California Department of Public Health’s Office of AIDS approved the organization’s application on Monday (Oct. 14). In addition to meeting state requirements, the letter states that NVHRC received approval because “conditions exist for the rapid spread of HIV, viral hepatitis, or other blood-borne diseases in Butte County.”

Of note, NVHRC worked with CDPH to address the concerns of local law enforcement, and its new plan limits the location of its services, which will be offered on Sundays, 9-11 a.m., and highlights its syringe litter cleanup efforts, including a hotline and online reporting form.

The program will be certified for two years but can be renewed. Check nvhrc.com for updated info.