Pubdate: Fri, 24 Nov 2000
Source: Calgary Sun, The (CN AB)
Copyright: 2000 The Calgary Sun
Contact:  2615 12 Street N.E., Calgary, Alberta T2E 7W9
Fax: (403) 250-4180
Website: http://www.canoe.ca/CalgarySun/
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Author: Michelle Mark

JUNKIES SHOW THEY CARE WITH NEEDLE DROP

Kicking off phase two of their needle awareness program, city safety
officials have collected about 15,000 used intravenous needles in drop boxes
around the city.

"This is a safety program that I think Calgary can be very proud of," said
police Chief Jack Beaton.

Free from the threat of police patrols, drug users have dropped their
needles in the boxes at an astounding rate since the project started in
November, 1999.

"Who would have thought they'd have a community conscience?, said Beaton.

"It's nice to see they do have a conscience and they care about our
children."

Another 24 of the yellow drop boxes are being added to city streets,
bringing the total to 36.

Calgary police and fire departments, Calgary EMS, CRHA and the city's school
boards will also target youth to boost education about addiction and safe
disposal of needles and condoms.

Educating kids about the hazards of needles is key to the program's success,
said the chair of Communities for Awareness and Action on Prostitution
Issues.

"Today, 15,000 individual chances of someone getting hurt are off our
streets," said Carol Potter.
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