Working to Improve Neighbourhood Safety
WINS is a peer-based needle recovery and harm reduction outreach program
For the past five years, Working to Improve Neighbourhood Safety (WINS) has been working to dispose of improperly discarded needles and support people that use substances in Waterloo Region.
The WINS Program is operated by Sanguen Health Centre in partnership with Region of Waterloo Public Health and the cities of Cambridge, Kitchener and Waterloo.
How does it work?
WINS hires and trains people who have lived and living experience with substance use to safely dispose of discarded harm reduction supplies (such as used needles and glass pipes).
These individuals often face barriers to traditional employment.
54
54 peer workers
478
478 average hours each month worked by peer workers
2541
2541 needles collected each month
787
787 glass pipes collected each month
Peer workers are trusted sources of information and support many individuals in the community, including local businesses and individuals who use substances. They provide resources and harm reduction supplies, education on safe disposal and facilitate connections and referrals to local support organizations.
1360
1360 harm reduction supplies distributed each month
22
22 sharps disposal containers distributed each month
31
31 referrals to community organizations each month
The collaboration, outreach and peer-led support in the WINS program has created a successful roadmap to provide accessible and equitable services that impact individual and community health.
More information on the WINS program, safe sharps disposal and other community health initiatives:
