Cowichan Valley is facing an epidemic of opioid addiction. While this issue needs to be addressed at its root, and extends far beyond the boundaries of Cowichan, there is a need to reduce harm now. One of the harm reduction strategies is to provide free needles for those who have fallen prey to this epidemic. Unfortunately, a needle exchange program is not part of this initiative, and the 5 locations that hand out needles do not require needles to be returned in exchange for new ones.  With no incentive for those victims of addiction to return the needles, to many needles are being left behind after use, and it’s putting others at risk of harm.  Let’s make our voices heard!! We need to reduce the harm that is the unfortunate fallout of this harm reduction strategy.  Let’s ask our local health authority, politicians, and organizations who provide these services to include an exchange as part of the strategy.  Please sign and share!