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MATTERS distributes free harm reduction supplies across New York State, including drug test strips and sterile syringes.

Safe Injection Supplies by Mail

Image of many syringes
image of a person carrying two brown boxes for delivery.

Our Syringe Services

MATTERS provides individuals with a box of supplies, including cotton filters, alcohol pads, bottle caps/cookers, bandages, sharps containers, and syringes. Learn more about our Syringe Services Program (SSP) by exploring our frequently asked questions below.

Who is eligible?

Any person who injects drugs within New York State age 18+ can apply to receive safe injection supplies from MATTERS.

How do I get supplies?

Individuals must apply to receive safe injection supplies. Applicants will receive an email notifying them of their acceptance with instructions on how to order.

How often can I order?

Once per month. Individuals needing supplies more frequently should contact the MATTERS team. Click here to visit our contact page.

Can I select my supplies?

Yes! Participants can select the gauge and length of the syringes they need. They can also customize the other supplies included in each shipment.

How to Join

Application Process

Individuals must apply to participate in SSPs across New York State. Not all applications will be accepted. On the application, individuals will be asked questions that MATTERS will use to create a unique identifier. This unique identifier will be used to identify patients in the program while keeping their identity anonymous. After submission, applicants will receive an email notifying them of their acceptance into MATTERS’ SSP, which will include instructions on how to order supplies.

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How to Order

Ordering Supplies

Participants who are accepted into MATTERS' SSP will receive an email with their unique identifier and a link to the order form. The order form will ask for participants' unique identifier as well as a shipping name and address. Once the package is shipped, individuals receive an email with a tracking number. In the first shipment of supplies will contain an ID card that has information about the public health laws that make SSPs legal.

Learn about SSP laws and regulations

What Next?

After you apply, receive your acceptance notification, and order your first shipment, learn about cleaning and safely disposing of supplies. These are important steps to preventing infections like HIV and Hepatitis.

Cleaning Supplies

It is best to use a new, sterile syringe and fresh supplies for every injection. However, when this isn’t possible, you can clean supplies with water and bleach.

 

Click on the button below to watch a video for guidance on cleaning a used syringe, or click here for written instructions from the National Harm Reduction Coalition.

Sharps Disposal

“Sharps” include needles, syringes, blades, and other devices that can pierce the skin. Safely disposing of sharps is important to prevent diseases like Hep-C and HIV while also keeping our communities clean. With every syringe supply kit, MATTERS provides a sharps container for safe needle storage.

 

Don’t have a sharps container? Click here.