Syringe Service Program
Vermont CARES is a harm reduction organization that provides Syringe Service Programs, HIV/HCV testing, safer sex supplies and educational training across Vermont.
Harm Reduction simply means that we are helping people to reduce the potential harms that may be associated with drug use and sexual activity. We are enabling people to live safer, longer, healthier lives by preventing HIV infection, overdose deaths, viral hepatitis and helping people get connected to treatment. Our programs aim to educate, engage and bring evidence-based interventions to those who seek our services through compassionate care and guidance.
Syringe Service Program
We have drop-in locations in Saint Johnsbury, Rutland, Morrisville and Barre. Our mobile van services other communities such as Newport, Morrisville, Wells River, Middlebury, Saint Albans, Swanton, Hardwick and we are adding more locations everyday.
We have a variety of hours available, ranging from drop in hours with no appointment necessary to scheduled appointments at locations that make it easy for folks to meet us.
HIV and Hep C Testing
Vermont CARES offers free HIV & HEP C testing at all of our sites and in our mobile van. We use a rapid-result finger stick test, made by OraSure, that produces initial results in 20 minutes. These tests are accurate, fast, and free of charge. During a session a counselor will discuss risks and ways to stay safe. We offer appropriate referrals to health and social services as needed. Getting tested is the only way to know your status. It is one of the best forms of prevention.
Overdose Prevention
Through our Syringe Service Program we provide the life saving medication, naloxone, also known as Narcan. This safe and easy to use nasal spray can reverse an opioid overdose in minutes.
We provide educational workshops, videos and in person demonstration.
Fentanyl test strips are available at all of our sites. Research has show that this cost effective intervention can save lives. To see the John Hopkins study click here.
Wound Care Support
Our current project incorporates both conventional and herbal strategies for wound care. We have two herbal preparations for antimicrobial support and abscess care. The herbal preparations are designed to be preventative.
We have information about safer injection strategies, vein health, proper wound cleaning, and give referrals to other services or health care practitioners.
Syringe Service Program Hours and Locations
Saint Johnsbury, VT
1091 Hospital Drive, St. J
Drop In Hours: Thursday’s 9am to 3pm
Monday thru Friday just call first to make sure we are available, 9am to 4pm.
802-748-9061 or 802-748-6802
Rutland, VT
1 Scale Ave, Rutland VT
Building 18, Suite 103, 1st Floor
Behind the Howe Center
Drop in hours: Wednesday’s 9am to 3pm & Thursday’s 12pm to 5pm
802-775-5884 or 802-528-1139
Barre, VT
Located at People’s Health and Wellness Clinic
553 North Main Street
Drop in hours: Monday’s 12pm to 4pm
802-371-6222 or 802-528-1139
Morrisville
Located at Betsy Perez Urology Office
51 Brigham Street, Morrisville, VT
Drop in hours: The 1st Monday of every month
802-448-4898
Drop by any one of our offices, our mobile van or give us a call. Our services are free and anonymous. All are welcome. We are here to help you take a step towards being healthier.
802-345-4601
Mobile Van
Serving Franklin, Grand Isle, Addison, Orleans, Lamoille, Essex, Rutland, Caledonia, Orange & Washington counties.
Call for information and to make an appointment. 802-345-4601 ext. 2
Regular Hours for Mobile Services
Saint Albans: Fridays 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm (call to schedule appointment)
Phone: 802-309-7288
For mobile services in all other areas, just give us a call at 802-345-4601 and choose the location nearest you. We are available by appointment Monday thru Friday. You can choose where you want to meet us.
In a Nutshell…..
How It Works
- Become a member. It’s free and completely anonymous.
- We will meet you where you are at. You decide what you need and want.
- We will treat you with respect and non-judgmental care.
- Receive a special card that provides you protection under the law when possessing injection equipment.
- Receive your start up kit containing sterile equipment, works and more……
- After initial visit come back in anytime to reconnect with us.
- Some of the things you can get from us: Narcan (naloxone), Fentnayl test strips, HIV & HCV testing, wound care kits, referrals to treatment, and case management services.
- We have drop in hours, no appointment needed.
- We also offer appointments and mobile van services, just give us a call.
