harm reduction SERVICES

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 Our Harm Reduction mission is to promote the principles of harm reduction and improve the well-being of individuals and communities. We strive to minimize the negative consequences associated with certain behaviors or substance use through compassionate and evidence-based interventions. By meeting individuals where they are, without judgment or discrimination, we aim to provide resources, support, and education to reduce harm and enhance overall health. Our collaborative approach involves working closely with individuals, communities, and healthcare providers to develop and implement effective strategies tailored to their specific needs. Through our commitment to harm reduction, we endeavor to create a safer, healthier, and more inclusive society for all. 

Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) is a medical condition that can be medically treated.  When medication is used, it is vital to secure a legitimate prescription and oversight from a licensed medical professional. There are three Medications for Addiction Treatment (MAT) – Suboxone, Methadone, and Sublocade-that are clinically proven to reduce mortality rates among those suffering with OUD. Tier1Recovery supports an holistic approach to treatment that takes into account additional factors like homelessness, lack of income or social supports and lack of health care coverage. There are many complex barriers to recovery that must be addressed to help individuals be successful in recovery. There is NO one-size fits all approach to recovery or right way; there are many pathways to recovery. The Opioid Response Team (ORT)and/ or its partners can help provide consistent case management, service navigation, and support to those who need assistance.

OUD individuals who participate in Harm Reduction Programs are five times more likely to achieve and maintain successful recovery efforts. Overdose fatalities are at an all-time high in Black and Indigenous communities in the United States. Over the past two years, we have seen national overdose death rates among Black men increase rapidly, and at a dramatically faster rate than white men.[1]This national trend is mirrored in New Jersey.[2]Historically, these populations have been disregarded for their drug use, primarily due to the War on Drugs and structural racism. As a consequence, Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) drug users have not received the same level of care and support as their white counterparts, and are now experiencing exponential increases in overdose. These data demonstrate that overdose prevention and harm reduction services must focus on Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color communities to effectively reverse these trends. 

[1]JAMA Network 

[2] Kaiser Family Foundation