The Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Health and Community Services, today announced more than $1 million in funding to support the AIDS Committee of Newfoundland and Labrador.
The AIDS Committee of Newfoundland and Labrador (ACNL) is a provincial community-based, non-profit charitable organization committed to preventing the spread of HIV, hepatitis C virus and related sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections through education and supportive harm reduction-based programs and services.
The funding will assist with the Safe Works Access Program (SWAP) to reduce health-related risks associated with substance use, sexual activity and sex work. More information about harm reduction services supporting Newfoundlanders and Labradorians who use drugs can be found here.
The funding aligns with recommendations from Health Accord NL to support the community sector and the social determinants of health.
Quotes
“We recognize the tremendous need of having dedicated community-based Safe Work Access Programs available throughout the province. This funding helps ensure the AIDS Committee can continue to offer harm reduction services via the Tommy Sexton Centre in St. John’s and Corner Brook, mobile outreach services, as well as in several satellite sites throughout the province.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services
“This additional funding will enable the AIDS Committee to continue SWAP services throughout the province as we continue to see an increase in access to our services from the community. Access to single use supplies and drug testing equipment reduces overdoses related to the tainted drug supply and reduces the transmission of blood borne infections including HIV and Hepatitis C. The committee works closely with the Department of Health and Community Services to reduce harms associated with drug use.”
Gerard Yetman
Executive Director, AIDS Committee NL
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