University of Regina and AIDS Programs South Saskatchewan Inc. launch a new project to help address drug overdoses and substance use in Regina
The University of Regina and AIDS Programs South Saskatchewan Inc. (APSS) are inviting media to attend the launch of Project Reportneedles.ca, which aims to reduce drug overdoses and help address substance use in Regina by using real-time needle-tracking information and a web-based app to target its supports to those who need it most.
Date: August 23, 2023
Time:
1:00 p.m. Opening prayer by Elder, welcome address, and project launch
1:30 p.m Media availability with project leads, Dr. Andrew Eaton (U of R) and Shiny Mary Varghese (APSS)
Location: APSS 1325 Albert Street, Regina, SK
For more information, please contact Sarah Ross, Harm Reduction Coordinator at APSS: harmreduction@apssregina.ca or call 306-924-8482.
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About the University of Regina
Set in the heart of the Canadian prairies we are a comprehensive, mid-sized university where the opportunities are as limitless as the horizon. Our campuses are on Treaty 4 and 6 - the territories of the nêhiyawak, Anihšināpēk, Dakota, Lakota, and Nakoda peoples, and the homeland of the Michif/Métis nation. It is our responsibility to strengthen relationships with Indigenous communities to build a more inclusive future for all. Our three federated colleges, 10 faculties, 25 academic departments, and 18 research centres foster innovative research with practical and theoretical applications. We are committed to cultivating the potential of our 16,700 students and supporting their health and well-being. We take learning beyond the classroom through work and volunteer experiences to develop career-ready graduates.
Let’s go far, together.
About AIDS Programs South Saskatchewan Inc. (APSS)
APSS is situated on Treaty 4 Territory, the original lands of the nêhiyawak, Anihšinapek, Dakota, Lakota, and Nakoda, and the homeland of the Métis/Michif Nation. Our harm reduction focusses on education and prevention of the transmission of blood borne infections (HIV/HEP C) and opioid overdoses in Regina and Southern Saskatchewan. APSS provides client care and peer support for People Living With HIV/AIDS and substance use disorders. Our programs address the health and social inequities among people at high risk for HIV and substance use disorders to reduce the transmission of blood borne infections and prevent opioid overdoses.
APSS developed reportneedles.ca in April 2021 and as of August 15, 2023, we have retrieved and safely disposed off 34,430 discarded needles in the community. The integrated geographical informational system is able to process this data and generate geomaps of community needle incidence hotspots.
Reducing Harms, Improving Lives
Learn more about APSS and support harm reduction at www.aidsprogramssouthsask.com/