MATTERS Network

12/09/2025

Harm Reduction Manager Shelby Arena walks through Step 2: Testing your substance in our "How to Use Test Strips" video.

Learn how to stay safe and test before you use!

To watch the full video and order free test strips, visit mattersnetwork.org/supplies-online.

12/08/2025

Legislation can shape the support and services available in our communities.

Here's what you need to know about up-and-coming bills on drug paraphernalia and the expansion of drug test strips.

These laws can help increase access to harm reduction tools and support safer substance use for people who use drugs.

For more information about your rights to carry safer substance use supplies, visit mattersnetwork.org/syringe-services.

12/05/2025

Our latest newsletter is officially out!

Stay informed with updates on our programs, services, news, and more.

Subscribe today: mattersnetwork.org/news

12/04/2025

Join us at the World AIDS Day and Ending the Epidemic Summit 2025!

Members of the MATTERS team will be tabling at the event, sharing resources, harm reduction supplies, and connecting with other organizations.

Thank you to the New York State Department of Health and AIDS Institute for having us. We look forward to seeing our partners in Albany!.

Register now: https://zurl.co/tpkKI

12/01/2025

We are very excited to introduce our new Outreach Coordinator, Mike Bernardi.

Hometown? Saranac, NY

What is your favorite aspect of the MATTERS program? The person-centered approach and the willingness to meet people where they are.

Favorite place to visit in New York State? Whiteface Mountain 🗻

11/26/2025

Did you know Long Island City, NY, has a harm reduction vending machine?

Managed by Phoenix House, it offers free naloxone, fentanyl test strips, and xylazine test strips to support safer substance use.

To find other vending machine locations, visit www.mattersnetwork.org/vending-machines/.

11/25/2025

Harm reduction matters.

and test strips are reaching communities across New York, helping prevent overdoses every day.

Individuals and organizations can order for free at www.mattersnetwork.org/supplies

MATTERS distributes free harm reduction supplies, including test strips and naloxone (Narcan), across New York State. Order supplies now!

11/24/2025

Over the past couple of weeks, our team has been on the road and even coast to coast, attending conferences and events.

We enjoyed connecting with partners and establishing new connections, while continuing important conversations about expanding access to care for opioid use disorder, harm reduction supplies, and supportive services.

11/21/2025

You spoke, and we listened.

The MATTERS Referral Platform now offers our partners more flexibility and account management.

Explore the latest updates: mattersnetwork.org/referral-platform-online

11/20/2025

The holidays can be hard, but you don't have to go through them alone.

Visit www.mattersnetwork.org for help, resources, and support.

11/18/2025

Harm Reduction Coordinator, Mia Dickinson, walks through Step 1: preparing your drug test strip in our "How to Use Test Strips" video.

Learn how to stay safe and test before you use!

To watch the full video and order free test strips, visit mattersnetwork.org/supplies-online.

11/14/2025

Did you know the Erie County Department of Health manages a harm reduction vending machine that provides free naloxone (Narcan), fentanyl test strips, and xylazine test strips to support safer substance use and save lives?

Thank you to the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Support for your partnership and collaboration on this initiative.

To find other vending machine locations, visit www.mattersnetwork.org/vending-machines/.