Harm Reduction
Harm reduction is a set of practical strategies and ideas aimed at reducing negative consequences associated with drug use. It includes a spectrum of strategies including safer use, managed use, abstinence, treating people who use drugs with dignity and compassion and meeting them "where they are" to help them regain a healthy life and reduce the impact of drug use on the community. Learn more about the principles of harm reduction.
Through our Outreach Services we provide a wide array of supportive services including linkage to substance use treatment programs, screening and linkage to care for HIV and viral hepatitis, naloxone distribution and education about overdose prevention, referrals to other social, mental health, and medical resources.
Update: The Health Department's headquarters, 400 E. Gray St., has partially reopened after significant damage from indoor flooding. Our Harm Reduction Services at the same location is open Mondays, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m., Wednesdays, 1 p.m. - 6 p.m. and Fridays 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.
- Outreach Services (formerly syringe services)
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Louisville Metro’s Department of Public Health and Wellness’ Harm Reduction Services Program provides support to people using drugs to regain a healthy life and reduce the impact of drug use on the community. Through our Outreach Services we provide a wide array of supportive services including linkage to substance use treatment programs, screening and linkage to care for HIV and viral hepatitis, naloxone distribution and education about overdose prevention, referrals to other social, mental health, and medical resources.
- Safe Syringe Disposal
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Boone Square Park: Near Rowan between N 19th and N 20th St, adjacent to the bathroom structure.
Portland Park: On N 27th St at Cornwall, to the right of the Portland Community Center entrance. [Temporary location, will move to other side of building once concrete slab is poured].
Shelby Park: Near Clay St between Gwendolyn and Shelby Parkway, on the northeast corner of the covered pavilion.
- Overdose Prevention
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- Overdose Prevention Video Link
- Fentanyl Test Strip Graphic
- Request free fentanyl test strips
- Harm Reduction Coalition Overdose Prevention
To request a Narcan kit call us at 502-574-8800 or contact the Kentucky Harm Reduction Coalition at 502-537-6061.
- Fentanyl
- Safer Sex and Sex Work
- HIV
- HCV
- Wound Care
- Unhoused
- Addiction and Treatment Help
- Helpful links