Rural AIDS Action Network Syringe Exchange Program is 10 Years Old

DULUTH, Minn. — 10 years ago, the Rural AIDS Action Network, or RANN started as a way to prevent HIV, HEP-C, and opioid overdose deaths. One of the ways RANN has helped is by collecting and distributing sterile syringes through its Syringe Service Program.

The syringe exchange program in Duluth continues today. Last year in 2022, the program collected 347,000 syringes, while distributing 521,000.

However, the group does many other ways to help those who choose to use drugs. Naloxone kits and training are provided by RAAN and over 7,000 kits, with participants reporting 280 opioid-related overdose reversals.

The executive Director of RAAN says the group’s work is confidential and people using the services receive both support and trust.

“How are you today? What can we offer? A lot of times that will be a referral or a resource to one of the other great partners and providers that are within the community,” said Mary McCarthy, executive director of RAAN.

McCarthy says the ten-year anniversary is also a good time to remember that there are almost daily successes. Anytime a person they’ve seen before walks through the door it means they are still alive and breathing.