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Harm Reduction & Substance Use

Office of Harm Reduction Mission Statement

The Erie County Office of Harm Reduction is dedicated to improving community health by reducing the harms associated with substance use, as well as promoting dignity, autonomy, and safety among people who use drugs. Through evidence-based harm reduction strategies, peer-led and community-centered approaches, and compassionate engagement, we work to replace stigma with understanding, judgment with support, and addressing barriers with access. In collaboration with community partners, we meet people where they are and don’t leave them there by bridging gaps in services, advancing health equity, providing community education, and preventing overdose and infectious disease for Erie County residents.

To learn more, we invite you to explore our web pages, read about the Principles of Harm Reduction, or contact us.

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Hand holding 3 people behind a heart

Find treatment options and peer support. 

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Illustrated Narcan Nasal Spray (4mg dose)

Find out how to get Narcan/naloxone and other harm reduction supplies. 

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Cartoon of person at board instructing 3 pupils.

Sign up for available trainings in harm reduction and responding to overdose with naloxone. Find community events and trainings listed.

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Graphic of computer displaying bar and line charts

Overdose-related data and reports.

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Cannabis leaf outline

Learn more about NYS cannabis laws, risks of use, and safer use strategies.

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Medical Waste Disposal Bin

You can go to these sites to get rid of any medications and needles/syringes with no questions asked. 

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5 graphics (from top left to bottom right): emergency services person and vehicle, narcan, hands holding medical heart, 3 people lifting a heart, person with stethoscope

The Office of Harm Reduction's monthly learning collaborative.

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Hand holding medical cross logo and a heart graphic

Examines overdose-related deaths, investigates the underlying factors, and provides insights to inform effective strategies for prevention and intervention.

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Cartoon of 3 people holding hands surrounding heart

Family-centered harm reduction initiatives and trainings.

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School building with clock and flag

Harm reduction resources for K-12 School Administrators and Educators.

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Computer displaying picture of book (with mouse cursor over it) and boxes/tiles

Access articles, helplines, harm reduction supplies and support.

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Scale of justice

Learn more about Erie County’s legal action against the opioid crisis.

Contact 

Erie County Department of Health
Office of Harm Reduction
95 Franklin Street
Buffalo, NY 14202
Phone: (716) 858-7695
Fax: (716) 858-7690
Email: Harm.reduction@erie.gov

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