The increase in substance use, including opioid use, has resulted in subsequent increases in injection drug use.  This has also resulted in increased overdose deaths and viral infections and threatened progress toward success with HIV prevention.  Many who use syringes hide their drug of choice and transmission of use due to the heightened stigma associated with IDU use, which increases their risk for many health disparities. 

The Hoke County Health Department administers the Hoke Syringe Service Program and partners closely with Tia Hart Community Recovery Program in providing the program's services.  Funding is provided by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and recently received funding support from the Hoke County Commissioners through Opioid Settlement Funding. 

The program has found success in being in the community as much as possible.  Partnering with other community events and happenings has also proven successful and advanced stigma reduction efforts. Providing outreach events continues to raise awareness of the program and serves as increased opportunities to educate and support those in need of services and to those who love them.