Changes in the number of syringes distributed from quarter to quarter are typically dependent upon the need for syringes among our SSP participants. In 2024 specifically, a neighboring county changed how they managed their Syringe Services Program and did not allow for peer distribution of supplies; for this reason, many SSP participants in neighboring counties came to us for syringes. Dips in distribution numbers in 2025 were a result of limited staffing. 

• Peer Distributors
• Community Partner/Referral Agencies (e.g. Hyde County Department of Social Services, Hyde County Sheriff's Department, etc.)

According to the Community Opioid Resources Engine for North Carolina (CORE-NC), "Syringe services programs (SSPs) are an evidence-based strategy to reduce overdose deaths, reduce transmission of bloodborne pathogens including HIV and hepatitis C (HCV), and connect participants to treatment and care. SSPs provide a variety of social and health services for people who use drugs, often serving as the primary avenue to meet their health needs. They offer sterile syringes and disposal services to remove biohazards from the community, reduce sharing and reuse of syringes, provide wound care, distribute naloxone, and offer many other wraparound services." For more information, https://ncopioidsettlement.org/resources/syringe-services-programs/.

HCHD plans to distribute at least 4,000 clean syringes to SSP participants in 2024.