Winnipeg to collect more than 130,000 used needles in 2022-23

Thousands of needles have been improperly disposed of – one symptom of Manitoba's overdose crisis, and one community member who has seen the effects of the emergency firsthand says a controlled consumption site is vital for Winnipeg.

Craig Fontaine used a needle to inject drugs last week, and while it's easy to dispose of a needle properly, you need to know where to go first.

“You have to find a place – a place. You need to know where you're going, so it should be something you're used to. Something you've done before,” Fontaine said.

“I think it's safe for me, it's safe for others, and if it's done under the supervision of medical staff, that would be great.”

According to Street Connections, the Harm Reduction Unit of the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority, 130,728 needles were collected in 2022-2023.

“If there were needles hanging around, I wouldn't want any of my kids or grandkids walking around…I don't want to see a kid get stuck with one of these needles,” Fountain said.

There are several collection programs through Street Connections, including partnerships with 13 community patrol groups, neighborhood cleanups, collaborations with the city, and needle collection services for private residents. The city is responsible for picking up needles on public property, but when it comes to municipal needle disposal bins, Fontaine said the number of nine is too low.

“There must be more hell.”

Fontaine said he feels the supervised consumption space in Manitoba, which the government recently earmarked $3.9 million in its budget, will not only help reduce the number of used needles on the streets, but also save lives in Winnipeg, which many drug users say they need. quick access to support when ready.

“All drug users want to stop using drugs, but don't know how.”