Needle Exchange
Hours: Monday to Friday 1 to 3 pm
Anyone is welcome to use AIDS Saskatoon's needle exchange services; no identifying information is required in order to exchange. The program operates on a one-for-one (exchange) basis; we can provide new syringes, alcohol swabs, filters, spoons and two sizes of biohazard containers to safely dispose of used needles. Information is available on safer injection techniques, needle safety, and blood-borne pathogens.
The needle exchange is also the hub for donated toiletries and personal care items (from baby formula to toothpaste & shampoo), which are made available to exchange clients and PWAS.
AIDS Saskatoon's Needle Exchange program operates as a satellite for Saskatoon Public Health. They provide supplies, training, and best practices; AIDS Saskatoon supplies space and staffing.
About Needle Exchange Programs
Needle exchange programs provide people with access to new and sterile equipment for injection. They help to reduce the number of loose or discarded needles found throughout the community by providing space to safely dispose of used needles. Using new fixing supplies every time reduces harm caused by sharing equipment, as well as injuries and infections brought on by dull needles and non-sterile supplies.
Needle exchange programs are provided as a public health service throughout Canada to reduce the transmission of HIV and HCV.
The Saskatchewan Ministry of Health evaluated needle exchange programs throughout the province in 2008.
http://www.health.gov.sk.ca/needle-exchange-exec-summary
Click above to read about the findings of this report.
Needle Exchanges in Saskatoon
AIDS Saskatoon
1143 Ave F N
Services offered Monday to Friday from 1-3pm
Call 242-5005
Saskatoon Health Region Street Health Program
101-310 Idylwyld drive north
Service offered Monday to Friday from 10am- 4:45pm with extended hours on Wednesday/ Thursday from 10am-6pm
Call 655-4642
Health Works Van
Van stops
Ave. H & 20th from 7-7:30pm Monday to Friday
Ave. R & 20th from 8-8:30pm Monday to Friday
Ave. P & 20th from 11-11:30pm Monday to Friday
Call 221-2442 anytime between 7-11:30pm
SHARP
Mobile Van parks behind Westside Community Clinic 631 20th St. E
Available everyday from 12-5pm except Wednesday
Call 956-0345
SWITCH
Located at Westside Community Clinic 631 20th St. E
Service offered Wednesdays 5:30-8pm and Saturdays 11am-1:30pm
Call 956-2518
Exchange only up to 5 needles at a time.
