MATTERS Network

03/10/2026

We had a great time attending this year's NYSAM Annual Conference in NYC last week.

We are thankful for the opportunity to share lessons from scaling our statewide response efforts and to connect with others committed to expanding access to care.

Thank you to everyone who stopped by our table!

03/09/2026

Patient Safety Week reminds us that safety includes overdose prevention.

Having a safety plan can make all the difference. Small steps can reduce risk and save a life.

Save the Never Use Alone Hotline: 800-484-3731.
Learn more at mattersnetwork.org/gethelp

03/06/2026

On Black Balloon Day, we remember those we have lost to overdose and stand with the families and communities impacted.

We honor their lives by continuing to expand access to harm reduction, treatment, and recovery support.

For resources, visit: mattersnetwork.org

03/05/2026

Harm reduction vending machines are emerging as an innovative strategy to expand access to lifesaving supplies.

This JPHMP article examines implementation considerations, community engagement, and early outcomes from pilot programs. The insights can guide jurisdictions exploring similar approaches.

The publication includes contributions from MATTERS team members, Shelby Arena, Mia Dickinson, Dr. Joshua Lynch, and Dr. Brian Clemency.

Full article: www.mattersnetwork.org/research

03/03/2026

This Women's History Month, we recognize the strength and resilience of women.

All women deserve accessible, stigma-free care that meets them where they are throughout every stage of life.

02/24/2026

Need help paying for buprenorphine (Suboxone)? You may qualify for financial support through New York State's BUPE-AP program.

We make enrollment simple, with same-day medication approval and support for up to 12 months.

Call 765-628-8377 or visit mattersnetwork.org/bupe-ap to learn more and see if you qualify.

02/23/2026

We are very excited to introduce our new Harm Reduction Intern, Alyssa Krieger.

Hometown? East Aurora, NY

What is your favorite aspect of the MATTERS program? The person-centered care and services that MATTERS provides to improve health outcomes.

Favorite place to visit in New York State? New York City 🏙️

02/20/2026

As MATTERS continues to grow in Allegheny County, expanding our partner network allows us to connect more people to treatment, resources, and support.

By working together, we can strengthen pathways to care and reach more individuals across the county.

Become a partner: mattersnetwork.org/join-the-network

02/18/2026

Virtual care that meets people where they are.

Same-day appointments, secure visits, and multilingual support paired with wraparound services to reduce barriers to treatment.

Visit mattersnetwork.org/help to get connected.

Also known as the Treatment Referral Routing Service, this helpline is a confidential, free service that provides referrals to treatment facilities, support groups, and other community-based organizations.

02/17/2026

25 million test strips distributed across New York!

What began in 2022 has grown into a harm reduction effort reaching communities across the state. This milestone reflects years of sustained effort and collaboration to expand access and save lives.

Thank you to OASAS for partnering with us on this important initiative.

Free test strips continue to be available for individuals and organizations statewide. Order supplies at mattersnetwork.org/request-test-strips.

02/16/2026

MATTERS brings together experts across medicine, behavioral health, public health, and more to support people at every step.

Our multidisciplinary approach helps create stronger connections to care and better outcomes for the communities we serve.

Learn more about our team at: mattersnetwork.org/who-we-are

02/13/2026

Substance use and heart health are closely connected. Substance use can affect heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels, especially when substances are mixed.

Education and support can help reduce risk. Learn more about heart health at www.heart.org, or contact us at 765-628-8377 to get connected to care.