Pubdate: Tue, 06 Mar 2001
Source: Press Democrat, The (CA)
Copyright: 2001 The Press Democrat
Contact:  Letters Editor, P. O. Box 569, Santa Rosa CA 95402
Fax: (707) 521-5305
Feedback: http://www.pressdemocrat.com/opinion/letform.html
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Forum: http://www.pressdemo.com/opinion/talk/
Author: Susan Seitz

NEEDLE EXCHANGE

EDITOR: I was pleased to read that the Sonoma County supervisors approved 
an HIV prevention plan which expands the needle exchange program.

On Feb. 28, The Press Democrat mistakenly reported that the supervisors 
have provided funds for the exchange program. All of the supplies, 
including the needles, come from donations, and the exchange is run by 
volunteers. Right now the three exchange sites are outdoors: a parking lot, 
an alley way, and a garage.

As a volunteer for the past two and a half years with S.H.A.R.P. (Sonoma 
County Hepatitis/HIV/AIDS Risk Reduction Project), which operates the 
exchange program, I see firsthand our need for financial support and 
volunteers. I hope with the supervisors' backing that there will be an 
expansion of harm-reduction programs, health services and treatment programs.

Susan Seitz, Cazadero
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