The mission of the Maine Harm Reduction Coalition is to provide effective harm reduction services to people using substances in the Portland community. Through an ongoing partnership with Portland Public Health (PPH), participating students will assemble safe injection supply kits intended for distribution at the PPH Needle Exchange. There will also be opportunities for students to volunteer within the Exchange, allowing them to develop an understanding of the social structures which both stigmatize and support those in active use. By using their knowledge to educate peers, patients, and the wider community, students additionally benefit from this CSL as they learn to serve marginalized individuals and subsequently gain tools to empower their future patients. In doing so, they will contribute directly to the health of individuals and a greater community by minimizing injury, infection, and trauma associated with substance use.
Louisa Goldman, President, louisa.goldman@tufts.edu
Sam Barry, President, samantha.barry@tufts.edu
Jane Branch, President, jane.branch@tufts.edu
Paula Caras, President, paula.caras@tufts.edu