|
Alliance for Positive Change is a NYC based harm-reduction center which seeks to help those experiencing substance abuse. Alliance's philosophy is that it isn't possible to punish someone out of a chemical dependency. Instead, it is far more effective to try and reduce the spread of communicable diseases, prevent overdoses deaths, and provide people with the resources, information, and support that they need to start the process of reducing their drug dependency in a safe, non-judgmental environment. Although proven to be far more effective than other methods for combating drug dependency, the philosophy of harm reduction can often face resistance as some view as merely enabling drug-use. Although this is not the case, some will seek to exploit this misinformation to push their own agenda. As such, education about harm reduction strategies is vitally important.
To this end, over the past 12 months, our club has been volunteering with the Alliance for Positive Change. During this time, we have been helping to assemble packs to be given to those experiencing substance abuse. These packs contain numerous items designed to reduce the harm associated with drug use. This includes clean, disposable needles which prevent the spread of communicable diseases, information about how to prevent overdoses and what to do in the case of an overdose, and most importantly information regarding various social services available to them, such as housing and counselling.
During our time volunteering at Alliance, our club members have seen the immense educational value of these pack-making sessions. As such, through this grant we wish to assist Alliance for Positive Change in purchasing the supplies required to support their operation. This supplies will be purchased in November 2025 and used in educational pack-making sessions.
|
