Harm
Reduction
ACR Health’s Harm Reduction Services are designed to meet individuals where they are, offering compassionate, nonjudgmental support to reduce the risks associated with drug use and promote overall health and well-being. ACR Health’s harm reduction approach is rooted in respect, dignity, and the belief that every individual deserves access to health services without stigma or discrimination. By providing practical tools and education, ACR Health empowers individuals to make informed choices and supports them on their journey toward improved health outcomes.
Syringe Exchange Program (SEP)
ACR Health’s Syringe Exchange Program (SEP) is a harm reduction initiative designed to prevent the spread of HIV, hepatitis C, and other bloodborne pathogens among people who inject drugs (PWID). The program offers free and confidential services in a nonjudgmental environment, aiming to reduce health risks and promote safer practices.
Sterile Injection Supplies
Education & Supplies for People who inject drugs as well as for People who use drugs. Provision of sterile syringes, sharps containers, and other necessary equipment to ensure safe injection practices.
Expanded Syringe Access Program (ESAP)
Distribution of vouchers redeemable for sterile syringes at participating pharmacies, enhancing access to safe injection supplies.
Mobile Outreach
Deployment of mobile units and peer educators to targeted neighborhoods, providing education on the dangers of sharing needles, signs of overdose, and distributing sterile supplies.
Peer-Delivered Services
Highly trained peers distribute safer injection supplies within their networks, extending the program’s reach to individuals who may not access traditional services.
Harm Reduction Counseling
Education on safer injection techniques, overdose prevention, and safer sex practices, along with referrals to additional health services as needed.
For more information contact SEP@acrhealth.org or call (315) 475-2430.
Syracuse office
watertown office
utica office
Harm Reduction Medical Clinic
ACR Health’s Harm Reduction Medical Clinic offers compassionate, client-centered care tailored to individuals who use drugs. Grounded in harm reduction principles, the clinic provides a safe, nonjudgmental environment where clients can access essential medical services without stigma. As part of ACR Health’s broader Drug User Health Hub network, the clinic works to eliminate barriers and disparities that prevent people from accessing lifesaving care. Services include wound care treatment, access to medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD), and comprehensive medical support delivered onsite, through mobile outreach, and via telehealth across nine counties in Upstate New York.
Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD)
Access to medications like buprenorphine to support recovery efforts.
Hepatitis C Treatment
Screening and treatment services for individuals living with hepatitis C.
Vaccinations
Immunizations to protect against preventable diseases.
STI Testing
Screening for sexually transmitted infections to ensure early detection and treatment.
Linkage to Care
Referrals to primary and mental health care providers to address comprehensive health needs.
The clinic is conveniently located at 637 West Genesee Street, Syracuse, NY 13204. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact ACR Health at (315) 475-2430 or email SEP@acrhealth.org.
Resources
ACR Health is committed to saving lives through comprehensive overdose prevention services rooted in harm reduction, education, and community empowerment. Our services are free, confidential, and accessible to anyone who wants to be prepared to respond to an opioid overdose.
Free Overdose Prevention Education & Trainings, Including Naloxone Training and Access to Supplies (Narcan Kits)
Learn how to recognize the signs of an opioid overdose and safely administer Narcan, the life-saving medication that reverses opioid overdoses. Training sessions are available for individuals, families, organizations, and community groups—either in person or virtually.
Participants who complete training receive a free Narcan kit. Additional kits are distributed through community outreach, mobile units, and at events.
Community Outreach & Education
ACR Health staff and peer educators conduct overdose prevention outreach throughout Central, Mohawk Valley, and Northern New York, sharing information, resources, and Narcan with at-risk populations.
Naloxone Co-payment Assistance Program (N-CAP)
We connect clients with participating pharmacies where Narcan is available with little to no out-of-pocket cost.
Referral & Support Services
Individuals engaged through overdose prevention programming are connected to further support—including harm reduction services, the Syringe Exchange Program, Hepatitis C treatment, and the Harm Reduction Medical Clinic.
Drug Checking Services
Access to drug checking services through Immunoassay Testing Strips (Fentanyl, Xylazine test strips) and FTIR Spectroscopy machine. This initiative provides people who use drugs with the information needed to ensure they are making safe and informed decisions prior to using substances. The drug checking imitative is another resource used in our mission aiming to prevent drug overdoses and fatalities.
Get Trained. Save a Life.
To schedule an overdose prevention training or request Narcan, contact us at Narcan@acrhealth.org or call (315) 475-2430. Walk-ins are welcome at our Syracuse, Utica, and Watertown locations.