Harm Reduction
What is harm reduction?
“Harm reduction is a set of practical strategies and ideas aimed at reducing negative consequences associated with drug use.” National Harm Reduction Coalition
Such strategies include evidence-based solutions to address and prevent future epidemics related to drug use, such as naloxone distribution and syringe exchange.
How does it benefit the community?
- Cost savings – harm reduction significantly saves communities financially when compared with the lifetime cost of antiretroviral treatment of infectious diseases spread through shared needles
- Spread of disease – harm reduction reduces risky behaviors that contribute to the spread of infectious diseases such as HIV and Hepatitis
- Treatment referral and initiation – participants in a harm reduction program are 5 times more likely to enter an addiction treatment program
- Overdose prevention – harm reduction programs provide access to overdose reversal medication naloxone (NARCAN®)
- Community safety and contamination prevention – harm reduction programs provide a safe method of disposal of injection equipment, reducing community contact
Services Provided
- Free naloxone (Narcan) distribution & overdose education
- Syringe services (Safe needle exchange)
- Fentanyl and xylazine test strips
- Hepatitis C and HIV testing
- Safe sex supplies (condoms, etc.)
- Referrals for treatment and recovery support
- Community education and outreach
- Case navigation and resource support
Who the program is for
- People who use drugs
- Family members and support persons
- Individuals seeking testing, supplies or education
- Anyone wanting harm reduction information
Narcan Box Locations in your Community!
To help prevent opioid overdoses and save lives, free Narcan (naloxone) is now available at several accessible locations throughout our district. These outdoor boxes are stocked regularly and accessible 24/7. Narcan is easy to use and can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose in minutes. No ID or prescription is needed—just take what you need. Visit our interactive map or contact us to find the nearest Narcan box near you.
Where can I access a harm reduction program?
Carroll County Harm Reduction Services
Mobile Unit
Wednesdays 12:00 pm – 2:30 pm
Happy Hollow
Sweet Owen Hub
1005 Hwy 22 East
Owenton, KY 40359
Mon – Wed 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (closed 12-1 p.m.)
Thur 8:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. (closed 12-1 p.m.)
Fri 8:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Walk-ins Welcome Mon-Fri
Anonymous
Call 502-484-3425 for more information
Pendleton County Health Center
329 Hwy 330 West
Falmouth, KY 41040
Mon – Wed 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (closed 12-1 p.m.)
Thur 8:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. (closed 12-1 p.m.)
Fri 8:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Walk-ins Welcome Mon-Fri
Anonymous
Call 859-654-6985 for more information
Additional Information on harm-reduction
Test strips are available at the Owen and Pendleton County health centers.
- Published: April 16, 2021
- Page reviewed/updated: March 11, 2026