Sharps Buy Back program extended

November was Sharps Buy Back month locally and so too is December.

The North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit has extended the successful program that sees a container of sharps returned to the Health Unit for a $5 grocery gift card.

The initiative saw 17,300 sharps like needles and syringes returned last month.

Along with promoting safe handling of used sharps, the program looks to connect people with harm reduction and health services.

“The Health Unit is working with community partners to spread the word among individuals within our community. It is important that we offer safe, judgement free, options for sharps disposal and other harm reduction services,” said Auburn Larose, Community Health Promoter at the Health Unit.

Officials say while the incentive campaign will only run until the end of December, the Health Unit provides needle disposal and exchange services year round.

NOTE: Sharps Buy Back does not encourage the general public to search out 100 sharps to return for the $5 grocery gift certificate, rather those who use sharps to dispose of them safely at the Health Unit.

For more information on the Sharps Buy Back campaign, visit www.myhealthunit.ca/sharps or call 1-800-563-2808.