Denver Group Distributes 10K Meth Pipes, ‘Snort Kits,’ and Connects 1,700 to Treatment Annually
In an effort to reduce harm and connect individuals to vital services, the Harm Reduction Action Center (HRAC) in Denver has distributed over 10,000 meth pipes and “snort kits” while collecting more than 8,000 used needles from drug users in the past year. According to a newsletter sent to supporters on Thursday, HRAC has also connected approximately 1,700 people to medical, mental health, and substance abuse treatment.
Reducing Harm and Promoting Health
“Smoking is risk reduction over injecting,” said HRAC’s executive director, Lisa Raville, in the newsletter. “Many smokers weren’t served for years and now have access to experts, resources, and referrals.” Raville emphasized that the distribution of meth pipes and snort kits is part of a broader strategy to reduce the risks associated with drug use.
Connecting People to Treatment
HRAC has made significant strides in connecting people to treatment and other vital services. The center facilitated substance abuse treatment for 238 members and 396 non-members, mental health treatment for 247 members and 415 non-members, and medical referrals for 232 members and 394 non-members. Additionally, 282 members and 478 non-members received assistance with housing and identification replacement.
Saving Lives and Providing Essential Training
Despite criticism from detractors who claim HRAC enables addiction, Raville argued that the center’s efforts keep people alive and provide a pathway to recovery. Between July 2023 and June 2024, HRAC’s outreach team conducted 552 naloxone trainings and distributed 1,385 naloxone kits, an opioid antidote, to participants and community members. “Naloxone consistently remains one of our most highly requested services,” Raville noted.
Reaching Underserved Areas
HRAC’s outreach team serves at least 27 unique locations, including neighborhoods like Park Hill, Globeville, RiNo, Capitol Hill, Glendale, Five Points, Denver Tech Center, and areas near Englewood. The team often determines where to go based on feedback from participants and requests from neighbors and businesses to visit certain encampments. The outreach director also meets individuals at the borders of Denver to ensure that those in surrounding cities receive the necessary resources.
Community Clean-Up Efforts
In addition to providing health services, HRAC volunteers are committed to maintaining a clean neighborhood. Since last July, there have been 67 cleanups, with the next scheduled for August 3. “We meet at HRAC at 10 a.m. sharp to beautify our neighborhood,” Raville wrote. “It’s one thing to say we’re going to be a good neighbor; we have to continuously show folks that we are a good neighbor.”
Addressing Overdose Deaths
Despite their efforts, the issue of drug overdoses remains a critical concern. Raville reported that 212 people have died from drug overdoses in Denver this year, with 82 of them being unhoused. “Overdose continues to be the leading cause of death of our unhoused friends,” Raville said. “Friends we know, love, and serve are dying in this prohibition crisis, and dying publicly.”
Through its comprehensive approach to harm reduction, HRAC continues to make a significant impact on the lives of Denver’s most vulnerable populations, providing essential services and striving to create a safer community.
