Supervised drug use site points to overdose deaths averted

OnPoint NYC, the groundbreaking nonprofit that was the pioneer in offering supervised drug consumption services openly, marked its fourth anniversary with a celebratory press conference. The organization took the opportunity to emphasize its positive impact on the community and reaffirm its commitment to providing comprehensive services to individuals who use drugs in New York City.

Since expanding to include supervised consumption sites in East Harlem and Washington Heights, OnPoint has served nearly 7,000 unique clients and facilitated almost a quarter-million utilizations. One of the most significant achievements has been the reversal of 1,983 overdoses in its overdose prevention centers (OPCs). Notably, there have been no reported deaths among OnPoint clients at the facility, setting a remarkable safety record compared to supervised consumption sites worldwide.

Pia Marcus, the director of overdose prevention at OnPoint, highlighted the unique and intimate environment of the OPCs, where participants can use drugs without fear, rush, or shame. The organization’s approach has not only improved the health and well-being of participants but also saved the city government over $55 million in ambulance rides and hospitalizations.

Despite facing challenges and uncertainty due to federal government opposition, OnPoint remains steadfast in its mission. While losing funding from a federal grant, the organization continues to operate its drug consumption rooms using entirely nongovernment funding. The press conference served as a platform to showcase support from city and state officials, with State Senator Gustavo Rivera advocating for legislation to authorize supervised consumption sites statewide.

New York City’s acting health commissioner, Michelle Morse, emphasized the importance of evidence-based harm reduction strategies in saving lives. She criticized the federal government’s lack of support for such initiatives and highlighted OnPoint’s role in reducing overdose deaths among marginalized communities. Morse commended the organization for its contributions to public health success and emphasized the need for continued efforts to address the opioid crisis.

While the Trump administration’s stance on supervised consumption sites remains unclear, OnPoint remains dedicated to its mission of providing vital services to those in need. Despite challenges and opposition, the organization’s impact on the community and commitment to harm reduction are undeniable. As the fight against drug addiction continues, OnPoint stands as a beacon of hope and support for individuals struggling with substance use.